Volume 72, Issue 10

p. 11

INSIDE: U of O looking ahead, p. 5 We’re coming out, p. 14–15

Taking flight

Volume 72, Issu Issue ue 10 10 Nov. 3–9, 2011 201 11

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mercedes Mueller | editor@thefulcrum.ca | (613) 562-5261

3

LETTERS Can I get a side of common sense, please?

Re: “Can I get a side of English, please?”

(Opinions, Oct. 13) I AM WRITING to the Fulcrum in response to Ms. Lytle’s opinion piece about bilingualism at the University of Ottawa.

There is a reality amongst French communities in Canada that I don’t think everybody understands, and I’d like to take a moment to enlighten this issue. As a proud French Canadian, one of my fears is that in generations from now, our language will no longer be spoken—or even recognized as an official one in this country.

Roughly 24 per cent of Canada’s population is French speaking, and 74 per cent English speaking. Of these numbers, roughly 43 per cent of francophones are bilingual and only nine per cent of anglophones can say the same.

Based on these statistics, it is evident to me that francophones are still vulnerable to assimilation in this country.

Though I recognize that the University of Ottawa should be bilingual and not favour one language more than the other, Ms. Lytle’s article rubbed me the wrong way. Let’s not forget about the struggle francophones had to face for generations to obtain the bilingual services we now have at the University of Ottawa. Though bilingualism on our campus is not perfect yet, for once it wasn’t a francophone forced to translate an English sign.

I hope that Ms. Lytle’s experience will encourage her to embrace Canada’s cultural duality and learn some French. After all, the francophones outside of Quebec are forced to learn a bit of English to read menus, too.

Anne-Marie Roy Third-year communications student THERE ARE TWO absolutely appalling things about the “Can I get a side of English, please?” article published in the Fulcrum a few weeks ago. Both revolting, both unacceptable.

First off, the mere existence of the article. I am stunned, to say the least, that Jaclyn Lytle actually believed it was appropriate to write—and publish, nonetheless—an article about this “problem.”

But I am even more outraged by the fact that this story got airtime on the Ottawa Sun news.

Th is is absolutely ridiculous, considering the premise of this issue is entirely false! That’s right, the Quiznos signs

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mentioned by Lytle, along with the two others fi lmed in the cafeteria for the television segment, were not even solely in French!

The fi rst line might’ve been in French, but if we take just one second to read a little more, we notice that, right underneath the French title, there is the English translation. Sure, the typology is less obvious in comparison to that of the French writing, but it shouldn’t matter.

After all, you “could not care less about what size the font is.”

And the other signs? Well, they are in fact completely French—on one side!

A simple look at the other side of these signs and this entire false French favouritism situation is resolved.

On top of questioning the journalistic integrity of the Fulcrum, the assumption expressed in this article is shockingly insulting for the French community at our university. Th is reporter would not survive an hour on this campus in a francophone student’s shoes. There is no French favouritism at our school—if anything, there is English favouritism.

And do you hear the French community complaining? Why yes, of course.

But I think it’s safe to say that these complaints and comments are always done in a researched and considering manner: Based on actual facts and a true problem. Most of the time, however, this situation is simply dismissed, because of its ongoing status.

Do you even have any idea of how many English-only things exist at the U of O? Have you ever stopped to think about what it would be like to have to read French textbooks in your Englishtaught classes? No, of course not. Besides, I think it’s safe to say you would not stand for that.

However, for some reason, the reverse situation is tolerated. I cannot stress enough how much it insults and baffles me that this English-speaking journalist could not endure that one single sign was mainly French. Th is only goes to show just how much we neglect to offer proper respect and consideration to both of the main language communities on campus.

Th is false pretence was in no way grounds for a journalistic intervention, especially not one involving student and local media. By writing this story and by being so sensationalistic about it, you have seriously made me lose any hope of eventually living in a truly respectful bilingual environment. Not because of the administration itself or of the format of

Board of Directors The Fulcrum, the University of Ottawa’s independent, English-language student newspaper, is published by the Fulcrum Publishing Society (FPS) Inc., a notfor-profit corporation whose members consist of all University of Ottawa students. The Board of Directors (BOD) of the FPS governs all administrative and business actions of the Fulcrum. BOD members include Andrew Hawley (President), Devanne O’Brien (Vice President), Des Fisher (Chair), Ben Myers (Vice President Internal Communications), Matthew Conley, Alex Smyth, and Sameena Topan.

certain signs, no. Because of the attitude expressed by some members of the English community such as yourself.

Geneviève Hudon Second-year translation student Invitation for dialogue ABORTION IS AN issue that has divided Canadians for over 40 years.

Currently, abortion is legal on-demand during all nine months of pregnancy, and fully funded by taxpayers. Th is issue is controversial and it poses major philosophical, medical, legal, social, and political dilemmas. When does human life begin? How can our society support alternatives to abortion and help women in crisis pregnancies?

In the face of such a heated controversy, one would hope that university campuses are the centre of dialogue where we celebrate the freedom of speech by engaging in honest and respectful debate.

The University of Ottawa Students for Life, the pro-life club on campus, wants to have these discussions. However, we are often met with resistance and end up having monologues in lieu of dialogues.

Last fall, the club hosted a debate, but the event almost came to a grinding halt as pro-choice speakers again and again refused to discuss the topic. I emailed faculty members and political figures, but no one accepted even the offer of participating as a neutral moderator.

Eventually, we were successful in our search, but this year, U of O Med Students for Life has met the same resistance. Attempts have been made to secure a speaker—doctors, professors, political figures, newspaper columnists—but no one has accepted the invitation.

We would like to make this invitation public. On Nov. 11, we will be hosting a debate on the morality and legality of abortion. If you truly believe that abortion should be allowed at any point in the pregnancy and for any reason, and that it’s not a problem that one in four unborn children will be aborted, I encourage you to contact us: ottawastudentsforlife@gmail.com. We think that the pro-life position is logical and we’re willing to expose it to scrutiny. I fi rmly believe that we shouldn’t shy away from something just because it’s controversial. So who is up for the challenge?

Theresa Stephenson President, University of Ottawa Students for Life

Got something to say?

Send your letters to editor@thefulcrum.ca Letters deadline: Sunday at 1 p.m.

Letters must be under 500 words unless discussed with the Editor-in-Chief.

Drop off letters at 631 King Edward Ave. or email editor@thefulcrum.ca.

News 5 | Sports 9 | Features 14 | Arts 17 | Opinions 25 | Editorial 27

We will not consider hate literature or libellous material. The Editor-in-Chief reserves the authority on everything printed herein.

A vision of the future 5 University plans ahead

And the award for most dedicated Fulcrumite goes to...

Charlotte Bailey & Katie DeClerq

For a spooky good time.

Thanks for lending us your apartment and planning the Halloween event.

The end of an era

9

Football playoffs end Gees season

Full disclosure

14–15

LGBT students share their stories

Put down that controller, fatty!

17

U of O professor’s study links eating and gaming

Bilingualism boom 26 Students join discourse on language discord

Damn girl...

LGBT rights FAIL 27 Protecting our own needs to come first

To contact the BOD, email board@thefulcrum.ca.

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contents

Letters must include your name, telephone number, year, and program of study. Pseudonyms may be used after consultation with the Editor-in-Chief. We correct spelling and grammar to some extent. The Fulcrum will exercise discretion in printing letters that are deemed racist, homophobic, or sexist.

p. 23

NEWS EDITOR Jane Lytvynenko | news@thefulcrum.ca | (613) 562-5260

5

Perfect vision

photo by Mico Mazza

ROCKING IT U of O launches ambitious new vision

U of O launches strategic plan Jane Lytvynenko | Fulcrum Staff

ON OCT. 21, University of Ottawa president Allan Rock launched Vision 2020, a set of goals the U of O hopes to achieve within the next nine years. The four main areas of focus in the document are student experience, research, internationalization, and bilingualism.

At the top of the list is student experience, a problematic area for the U of O when it comes to Maclean’s University Rankings.

“We decided to focus, number one, on the quality of each student’s experience,” said Rock in an interview with the Fulcrum. “There is a danger that the campus might become impersonal in terms of students, especially in the early years in some of the bigger faculties.”

To improve the student experience, the administration will reduce new admissions to the university. Graduat-

ing students will be replaced and only 500 new students will be accepted each year.

“It’s easy for a university of 40,000 to become impersonal and to miss altogether a sense of belonging,” said Rock.

“We want every student to graduate thinking they spent the best years of their life at the university, which is not always the case.”

Smaller class sizes will allow for a more personal learning experience.

Rock said the administration is working to make more small seminars and discussion groups available for students.

Liz Kessler, vp university aff airs for the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa, argues high tuition fees are the number one cause of negative student experiences.

“The reality is the biggest problem students are facing that’s affecting their student experience is high tuition fees,” said Kessler. “People are having to work two or three jobs just to stay out of debt, and what that means is students have less and less time to actually study.”

“But there are also a lot of good things,” she said about Vision 2020. “It’s really good to see they’re addressing the quality of teaching.”

The second focus of Vision 2020 is research, which, for Rock, relates to the

quality of teaching. The university will strive to place within the top five universities in Canada in research intensity— U of O is currently number seven on the list.

“Research is key to the future of the nation,” he said. “And furthermore, re-

“In my view, when I came here in 2008 we had fallen behind many of our competitors in terms of internationalization,” said Rock. “I want you to feel, when you graduate from here, that your degree is of international value.”

Last but not least, U of O will contin-

I want ant you to feel, when you graduate from here, that your degree is of international value.

—Allan Rock, President of the U of O

search goes hand in hand with teaching.

A professor who brings fresh insight into the classroom is a professor who’s providing the best instruction.”

In order to further the university’s research and reputation, the third point is introduced: Internationalization.

Rock said the university will welcome more international students, fi nd international partners for research, and give current students more international opportunities through exchanges and volunteer opportunities abroad.

ue to improve the state of bilingualism on campus. According to Rock, meeting that goal will involve recruiting more francophone students, providing students with more access to French courses, and enhancing French research.

“Being the biggest bilingual university in the world gives us a competitive advantage,” said Rock. “It gives us the chance to compete for the best students in the country.”

“There are a few things in [Vision 2020] that are really awesome,” said

Kessler. “Such as the commitment to bilingualism, particularly in the classroom.”

Rock said he is confident with the long-term plan, adding he learned a lot from Vision 2010, completed last year.

The structure of Vision 2020 will allow the success of the goals to be measured numerically at the end of each year.

“Vision 2010 was the fi rst formal strategic plan the university ever had,” said Rock. “With 2020, we learned from that experience—we learned that there’s an advantage to being more specific.

Instead of being more general, we dug down a couple of layers and got much more concrete goals.”

Because of what he learned through participation in the research process and the feedback he has already received, Rock is sure the U of O is going in the right direction.

“I really feel confident now that I understand the main issues. I understand the aspirations on the campus. I have a better sense too of how we’re going to get there,” he said. “Not that I know it all— I don’t. I’m still learning. But I have an increasing sense of confidence that we’re going to succeed and we know what we have to do in order to do so.” f The full text of Vision 2020 can be accessed at Strategicplanning.uottawa.ca

6 | news

thefulcrum.ca | Nov. 3–9, 2011

news briefS Double homicide in Ottawa South OTTAWA—ON OCT 26, convicted drug trafficker Graham Thomas, 35 and Jason Chapman, 31, believed to be his driver, were shot and killed at Ottawa’s Gloucester Centre inside a tanning salon Thomas owned in the mall on Oct. 26.

Thomas has been charged with drug trafficking, impaired driving, driving while disqualified, and various degrees of assault. He was to appear in court this week to testify as a witness in an intimidation trial, as well as next September on assault charges.

It is believed that Thomas had ties to the Rizzutto crime family and the Hells Angels.

—Samantha Cowan-Cholette Evictions may be in the future for students OTTAWA—ON OCT. 20, the Carleton Condominium Corporation No. 24 passed a new regulation that would prohibit students from renting its units.

With these new rules, only families are permitted to rent the units, according to a letter published by the corporation this week.

Carleton University student and tenant Nicholas McLeod has taken a strong stance on the regulation, organizing opposition to the newly minted rule.

“I condemn the condo board’s decision. It is appalling that they would single out one group for discrimination,” said McLeod, who has lived in the corporation’s condominium’s units for the past three years.

When the new rules come into effect on Nov. 21, students and landlords are able to force a vote on the matter if the corporation receives a requisition from 15 per cent of the condo owners. Of the 300 units available, students occupy 30 per cent.

—Graham Mac Vannel Quebecois students protest tuition hike QUEBEC CITY, QUE.—ON OCT. 21, students from Concordia University, the University of Montréal, the Student Federation of Quebec University, and the Student Federation of Quebec College gathered outside the Quebec Congress Centre to protest rising tuition rates for Quebecois students.

The proposed $1,625 increase in annual tuition raised concerns that education, which many protesters see as an essential public service, could slowly become less available to Quebec residents who lack the money necessary to pay for a university degree.

—Nate Gibbs Remenda Dropping the gender-oriented washrooms WINNIPEG—AT THE UNIVERSITY of Winnipeg, a coalition of student groups and the administration want to create gender-neutral washrooms by the end of the academic year, much like their fellow Winnipeg university, the University of Manitoba.

The University of Winnipeg has aimed to introduce gender-neutral washrooms since 2007, but turnover in student leadership has prevented the goal from gaining momentum until now. The administration and LGBTTQ centre at the University of Winnipeg are hoping to offer washrooms as important “inclusive spaces” that are not gender specific.

The University of Manitoba already has unisex washrooms, but as David Vo, coordinator of the Rainbow Pride Mosaic, the LGBTTQ community at the university, explained to the Manitoban, “In order for it to be gender neutral, there must not be any signs that indicate males or females,” which is a problem associated with the unisex washrooms.

With only one gender-neutral washroom in place, the University of Manitoba may add more of these washrooms to their student body.

—Graham Mac Vannel

Briefs: Catching news with its pants down. news@thefulcrum.ca

Students’ neighbourly acts to be rewarded ASH and U of O create off-campus involvement awards Christopher Radojewski | Fulcrum Staff

THIS SEPTEMBER, THE Good Neighbours Committee, initiated by the University of Ottawa, created awards for off-campus student residents to encourage those living in Sandy Hill to be good neighbours. Granted in April, the awards for property improvement and community involvement will recognize students who have been nominated by a community member based on their contributions.

“The university, a couple years ago, founded the Good Neighbours Committee,” said Alastair Mullin, a director of external relations at the U of O. “That committee is a grouping of people from Action Sandy Hill (ASH), the community at large, our municipal councillor, as well as various people from the university. It is a forum where people can exchange ideas.”

The awards, which feature a total of $1,200 in prizes, will reward students who have participated in their community by improving their own property visually or who have taken part in community initiatives.

“We have three categories: The overall best off-campus student rental property, the best-kept off-campus student rental property garden, and the community involvement award,” said Marcia George, treasurer on the board of directors for ASH. “[The final award will go to] someone who is actively involved in the community, whether it be tending to the outdoor rink in the winter or volunteering at the Halloween party at the community centre,” said George. “There are wholehearted examples in our community of exceptional students

illustration by Devin Beauregard

and we want to start to identify those individuals.”

The awards encourage students living in the community to be better neighbours, a goal many tenants have already achieved.

“Last year some [students] assisted in helping clear the community hockey rink and have helped with clean up the park day,” said Mullin. “We also have students volunteering over in the homework club at Strathcona Heights. There are a lot of places where students are doing an awful lot of good and we need to recognize that. We are trying to encourage people to put a good face on a neighbourhood and improve the quality of life.”

Though there has been tension between students and other residents of Sandy Hill over the state of properties in the past, organizers are confident this program will bring positive change and improve the Sandy Hill community.

“Occasionally there will be some issues,

as this is a campus of 40,000 students living close to a residential neighbourhood,” said Mullin. “More often than not, there are people telling us [about the] wonderful impact students have on the community. It’s a small group [of students who help], but it’s a growing group and we hope it will continue to improve relations in the neighbourhood, as well as the reputations of Sandy Hill and the University of Ottawa.”

Many residents recognize the student population in the neighbourhood as an important part of Sandy Hill.

“At the end of the day, these are our baby sitters, our neighbours, and we have to start identifying [their good work],” said George.

“Action Sandy Hill is very aware that there are a lot of exceptional students. It’s time we started to show the positive light [in] the f community.”

To nominate a student resident, view the complete list of regulations, or learn more bout ASH, go to Ash-acs.ca.

What’s he building in there?

Survival of the same Tyler Shendruk | Fulcrum Contributor

The problem NATURAL SELECTION IS one of the cornerstones of modern science. Genetic mutations cause organisms to be more or less fit to survive; those who can’t compete die, while the strong pass on their genetic strengths to a new generation.

Still, genomes are complicated things.

Genes can react to internal and external stimulus by changing the type and amount of proteins expressed at any given time. Th is allows species to respond to new situations faster than if they had to evolve over many generations.

The researcher Daniel Charlebois is a PhD student in the physics department at the University of Ottawa who conducts research out of

the Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology.

A physicist studying biology may be a surprise to some, but Charlebois has an undergraduate degree in biology and his training in physics brings with it an extensive knowledge of non-linear systems and computation, which help him to understand gene expression.

The project Charlebois wanted to look at the potential survival mechanisms besides genetic mutations. Clones all have the exact same genes, but natural variations in the local environment of each cell cause different genes to be expressed in each individual. Th is “noise” means even a population of genetically identical clones has some natural diversity.

The key Charlebois simulated a community of clones, which he subjected to a harmful drug. He didn’t let the virtual-reality cells evolve through mutations. Because

the cells couldn’t evolve and had no specialized defence against the drug, traditional evolution theory would say they could never develop any drug resistance and would all die—but that’s not what Charlebois saw.

Instead of all dying, a small amount of cells lived through the attack, because at the time they expressed the exact protein mix needed to survive by chance.

The generations, which grew out of this small community, were genetically identical to the clones. No mutation or evolution had taken place, despite survival of the fittest occurring.

Genetic noise isn’t always something annoying to be rid of. Charlebois believes natural fluctuations are a survival mechanism life takes advantage of for adaptation without mutation.

Are you doing interesting science? Or do you have a professor who can’t stop talking about his or her research? Let us know at research@thefulcrum.ca

thefulcrum.ca | Nov. 3–9, 2011

news | 7

Zombies attend transit funeral Students raise awareness about U-Pass price increase Christopher Radojewski | Fulcrum Staff

ON OCT. 31, students at Carleton University, led by the Carleton University Students’ Association (CUSA), dressed up as zombies and attended a mock funeral for the loss of important transit routes while getting students to sign postcards petitioning against proposed fare hikes for the U-Pass.

photo by Chris Radojewski

CASUALTIES OF OC TRANSPO Students bring awareness to the loss of major bus routes

“Because it was Halloween, we figured we would do a zombie march mourning the loss of 46 bus routes, including the 117, which was a vital bus that used to service students in the Prince of Wales area that went to Carleton,” said Chantle Beeso, vp of student issues for CUSA. About 15 students started the procession in the Carleton University Centre at 11 a.m., marching to the bus stop on campus. Tombstones were laid in memory of the 117 route. Students also spoke out against the suggested 17 per cent increase in the price of the U-Pass to be put forth in referendums at both Carleton University and the University of Ottawa.

“Basically OC Transpo wants to raise

the price of the U-Pass by $70, and so we have these U-Pass postcards that we’ve been handing out to students,” said Beeso.

“We have over 3,000 signed at Carleton and over 5,000 signed at [the U of O].”

The postcards will be sent to city officials to express opposition to the price hike.

The zombies’ big concern wasn’t just the price hike, but also the city’s financial reports, which, according to Beeso, don’t add up.

“We’ve put together a U-Pass lobby document that basically states that there could be a margin of error in OC Transpo and the city’s numbers that they put forth to us,” said Beeso. “They actually haven’t

provided us numbers with a financial breakdown as to why $180 per semester is absolutely necessary.”

“With the numbers that we have put together [with] statisticians, we believe $145 per semester, with the letter of intent that we have signed, is a revenue-generating program,” Beeso added.

There were many students signing the postcards being handed out at the protests who agreed that the increase is too much for OC Transpo to demand.

“I am a student and I don’t actually work,” said Alfredo Garcia, a fourth-year law and political science student at Carleton University. “My academics mean a lot, like keeping a high CGPA. [A] $70

increase is something I don’t really have.

Especially because I am on the [Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)] and I rely a lot on my bursary and scholarship money and my parents. I know $70 doesn’t sound like that much, but when you are a student living off OSAP, it adds up.”

There are students who maintain the UPass has been a useful and necessary service—and a staple in their transportation.

“Despite the increase, I would still want a U-Pass,” said Bachan Mahamdou Danda, an international development and globalization student at the U of O. “I use the U-Pass a lot. I would sign the [postcards] though, to keep the price the same.”

Though discussion among students at

the mock funeral remained divided, many believe there have been benefits to the program.

“I like the idea that I get a subsidized bus pass, but half of my friends did not want the U-Pass and did not want the extra charge for it,” said Thomas Sears, a fourthyear engineering student at Carleton University. “I wish there was a better compromise. In terms of keeping students mobile and reducing the amount of cars [on the road], I think the U-Pass is a good idea.”

The proposed price of the U-Pass will be put to a referendum in the spring before the U of O or Carleton University can determine if the program will continue in fall 2012. f

Leave the pack behind Health Promotion launches program to help smokers quit Christopher Radojewski | Fulcrum Staff

LEAVE THE PACK Behind is a free service offered by Health Promotion at the University of Ottawa to assist students who are trying to quit smoking. This year, Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) was added to the program because of concerns regarding high smoking rates on university campuses.

“This year, Health Promotion is composed of over 70 student volunteers and

eight work-study team leaders,” said Madeline Dignan, head of the Leave the Pack Behind team. “The students are divided into seven teams whose focuses include drugs and alcohol, global health, sexual health, international health, nutrition, healthy minds, and Leave the Pack Behind.”

“Leave the Pack Behind, along with Health Services’ smoking cessation program, is offering free full-course treatments of Nicotine Replacement Therapy—the

patch and gum—to students who wish to quit smoking.”

NRT is the name for treatment of nicotine cravings with either a specialized patch or gum. Studies suggest it is almost twice as likely for an individual to quit smoking using NRT than without it, but the problem for many is the cost.

“A one-week supply can cost between $20 and $50,” said Dignan. “Daily, the patch can cost between $3 and $7. However, now students can access it for free at the Health Services clinic—although they need to make an appointment regarding smoking cessation.”

According to Dignan, 22 per cent of students admit to smoking regularly, a problem those working at Health Services are hoping

to reduce.

“Leave the Pack Behind’s goal is not to force students to quit smoking,” said Dignan.

“We are present to encourage and provide resources to those students who are interested in quitting and to get more students thinking about quitting.”

Daniel Stojanovic, a second-year health sciences student, appreciates the accessibility of Health Services, having used the services before.

“The programs Health Services offer are really handy for university students because we have such busy lives and they aren’t too aggressive,” said Stojanovic. “They are almost always available so it is really easy to accommodate your schedule, especially when

you compare it to other services.”

Health Promotion’s visibility and active nature on campus has made some smokers consider using NRT. “I would definitely seek this new service.

If this service is available and easily accessible, many see this as a good chance to try and quit smoking especially since it is free,” said a fourth-year engineering student and smoker at the U of O. “Sometimes you are confused whether you want to quit or not. That discussion includes whether you have the money to quit, but having that easy access is important.” f The University of Ottawa’s Health Services’ Health Promotion is located in room 203 of the University Centre.

8 | news

thefulcrum.ca | Nov. 3–9 , 2011

Former professor arbitration talks adjourned Rancourt’s case to pick up in January Charlotte Bailey | Fulcrum Staff

ARBITRATIONS TO DETERMINE whether former U of O professor Denis Rancourt should be reinstated, which took place on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, have been adjourned until early 2012. The case—which shut down after opening statements were made—was delayed at the request of the University of Ottawa, asking for more time to determine whether or not Rancourt’s teachings could be thought photo courtesy Denis Rancourt

of as “experiments.”

RANCOURT WANTS REINSTATED

“[The case] hasn’t really gone anywhere yet,” said Rancourt. “We just keep adjourning all the time.”

Rancourt, who was fired in April 2009 for telling the students of two senior-level physics classes they would achieve As in his class on the first day, has been trying to regain his status as a professor since the controversy began.

Rancourt says he wanted to remove the fear of obtaining a poor grade to improve his students’ focus on learning. In opening statements, the U of O said this method showed a “reckless disregard” for students.

“From the university perspective, it’s not about pedagogy, nor is it about academic freedom,” said the U of O’s counsel

at the arbitration. “Th is isn’t a novel case about academic freedom. This is a downmarket case of an individual fi red for some very basic behaviours that involve dishonesty, breach of trust, [and] insubordination.”

The counsel also claimed Rancourt deceived André Lalonde, dean of the Faculty of Science, about the manner in which classes under Rancourt’s supervision were being conducted. Rancourt’s counsel disagreed.

“Th is is a case about whether or not a professor can adopt a methodology in his teaching, and defend and protect that methodology without fear of reprisal,” said Sean McGee, counsel for the Associate Professors at the University of

Ottawa and Rancourt’s legal representative. “Calling this grading experiment academic fraud is a shocking hyperbole from such an institution.”

“He was conducting an experiment in which he made an assumption that people could be driven to learn in such an environment, and that he could work with his class to prove his assumption correct.”

In an interview after the hearings, Rancourt disagreed with his counsel, denying his behaviour qualified as “experiments.”

“I’ve never used that word,” said Rancourt. “I think it misrepresents what’s going on in that classroom. Whenever you are in front of a class, you’re doing something that’s called teaching. Depending

on the methods that you choose to use, there are going to be different responses.”

One of the issues raised at the arbitration was the introduction of evidence that has developed since Rancourt’s dismissal, which could build a stronger case for the university. These include emails from Rancourt to his students and posts on his personal blog.

The U of O also brought up alleged defamation of professor Joanne St. Lewis on Rancourt’s blog—the post in question suggested St. Lewis was acting like “Allan Rock’s house negro.” She currently has a pending defamation lawsuit against Rancourt.

“I clearly do not believe that it’s defamatory,” said Rancourt. “I’ve written a

statement of defence for the court that’s online that explains, in detail, how it’s not defamatory. Some people are of the strong opinion that for me to use racial terms that applied to a black person, as a white person, is improper. There are others who are of the opinion that this kind of criticism is essential to making society better.”

The U of O Communications Officer Vincent Lamontagne declined to comment on behalf of the university, saying doing so would be in breach of the confidentiality regulations to which they are legally bound.

No decision has been made as to whether post-dismissal evidence will be included. The next date for arbitrations is f Jan. 23, 2012.

A UNIVERSITY IS a business. True, it’s an important institution of higher learning, but like any other enterprise it has to earn some dough. It’s time to face it, folks: Our tuition is not going down.

One reason is our fragile and unstable economy. With stock markets crashing all over the world, it’s no wonder the businesses remaining intact want to harvest the greens. Add ever-rising costs to the list and suddenly hikes in tuition don’t seem so unreasonable.

I will never support the Education is a Right, formerly known as the Drop Fees, campaign because it has its head in the clouds. It seems to want more for less, but we should be getting more for more. Expecting tuition fees to suddenly drop from

“sky-high” to “affordable” is unrealistic, partially because there’s no concrete definition for “affordable”.

What we should be rallying for is getting more out of our money. That’s why I’m extremely fond of Vision 2020, an action plan recently released by the U of O. It adds value to our education, presenting students with opportunities, placements, and environments to enhance the degree they’re getting.

Reducing tuition fees would mean reinforcing the “just another high-school degree” stereotype about undergraduate programs. Investing in the institution’s functions and, subsequently, reputation, on the other hand, steers clear of the misconception.

Smaller class sizes, real-life work, and a high quality of teaching are what students should be demanding. Those investments in the university’s image are what will get a future employer to hire you over someone who has the same degree from a less respected institution.

Trust me, I get it. I’m not rich and paying for university sucks. But if you’re tight on finances, there are options. You can apply for scholarships, pull up your grades, work summer jobs, and take out student loans. University is something you can plan for, which often means you can financially prepare yourself ahead of time.

If you really can’t find a way to help yourself, you’ll end up with a hefty debt at the end of the four years. Though it won’t

be as much as our southern neighbours have to deal with, it’s still money owed.

The thing is, if you have a good, highquality, valuable education, you will get a job, and paycheque, to match. Paying off thousands of dollars owed will be on the tough side, but it won’t stop you from living a comfortable life—getting a bad education might.

Call me crazy, but I’d rather pay good money for something valuable than save some cash and get something mediocre.

At least the former comes with a better guarantee.

next stop Jane Lytvynenko News Editor

Adding value to education

Former U of O professor fighting a legal battle with the university

news@thefulcrum.ca (613) 562-5260

SPORTS Katherine DeClerq | sports@thefulcrum.ca | (613) 562-5258

9

That’s all, folks Lancers end Gees’ hopes of Yates Cup appearance Keeton Wilcock | Fulcrum Staff

O

N OCT. 29, the University of Ottawa men’s football team (5-4) hosted the Windsor Lancers (5-3) at Frank Clair Stadium for the second time in two weeks.

While the Gees managed to pull out a 3230 win in the earlier matchup, the tables were turned in their most recent game as the Windsor group effectively ended the Gee-Gees’ playoff run—handing out a decisive 50-33 loss to the home team in the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) football quarter fi nal game.

The tone of the game was set early, when a Lancers receiver caught a 24-yard touchdown pass after less than three minutes of play. Adding to their initial lead, Windsor’s offence defeated the Gees with another two touchdowns, two field goals, and a massive 343 offensive yard gain in the fi rst half.

As the Garnet and Grey could muster only a single touchdown and field goal in response, the fi rst half ended with the Lancers up 34-10.

“Credit to [the Lancers’] offence,” said Gees head coach Jean-Philippe Asselin.

“They came in with a good game plan and made some big plays, mostly in the first quarter, and that put us out of our

game plan. It was tough to come back from that.”

Second-year receiver Justene Edwards helped the Gees begin the second half on better terms, as he returned the opening kickoff all the way to the Lancer’s 17-yard line, and caught a touchdown pass in the end zone less than a minute later.

Motivated by Edwards’ performance, the latter half of the game saw stronger play from the home team on both sides of the ball, as they managed to limit the Lancers’ offensive production and capitalize on their own red-zone drives.

Although the Gees outscored the visitors 13-0 in the fourth quarter, it was the Lancers that prevailed, relying on their athletic defence and aggressive offensive play-calling right until the fi nal whistle.

“They prepared for us pretty well— their defence showed us some things we hadn’t seen all season,” said Gee-Gees fourth-year tailback Mark Stephenson after the loss. “Their athletes played really well against ours.”

Despite acknowledging the Lancers’ strong play, Stephenson was still disappointed to be exiting the playoffs so early.

“I feel like we defi nitely didn’t play as well as we could have,” said Stephenson.

“We played these guys in week seven and we didn’t play as well as we could have then. We ended up taking it by two points. We just didn’t do enough today.”

With the Lancers victory, they will move on to face the top-seated University of Western Ontario Mustangs in one of the two OUA semifi nal matches on Nov. 5. The Gees, on the other hand, enter their off-season with higher hopes for next year.

“We’re a young team,” said Asselin. “I thought we could do better, but we’ll keep building and we’ll keep improving.” f

photo by Alex Smyth

PUSHING BACK The Gees put forth their defence but could not prevail

Second-half victory Women’s soccer beats the Blues for the second time this season Katherine DeClerq | Fulcrum Staff

THE GEE-GEES MASCOT danced to the sound of fans cheering and shouting as the University of Ottawa women’s soccer team (12-3-1) fought against the University of Toronto Varsity Blues (112-3) in the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) East semifi nal match on Oct. 30.

The evenly matched teams battled for the second consecutive time on Matt Anthony field that week, and while the Varsity Blues put up a valiant effort, the

Gees managed a second-half victory to claim the game 2-1.

“I think we were a little nervous,” said U of O fi rst-year goaltender Cynthia Leblanc of the well-matched game. “We went on the field scared to lose just because we knew how big this game was.”

The first half of the game saw two teams struggling to maintain dominance over the ball. Second-year striker Elisabeth Wong made a goal off a corner kick, but the goal was called offside.

Toronto came back with a goal of their own off a free kick and a misplaced defensive manoeuver by Leblanc, leaving the Gees trailing behind the Varsity Blues 1-0.

Head coach Steve Johnson took the girls aside during halft ime for a pep talk that seemed to change the team’s momentum.

“I’d say [our mood was] concerned but positive,” he explained. “We really didn’t like going down a goal, and we used that opportunity to relax the play-

ers, refocus, remind them that we’ve been a very good team through 90 minutes—we’ve got the fitness, we’ve got the healthy bodies, and we’ve got the depth.

We made some changes, brought in some fresh players, [and] rotated fresh players in the lineup.”

“I think it started slow,” said Leblanc. “We got scored on and it woke us up. When we went inside at the half, we talked and discussed what we needed to do and got on the field pumped for the second half.”

Wong managed to take advantage of the team’s burst of energy after halft ime with a quick kick into the left corner of the net 10 minutes into the half, tying the score 1-1. The Garnet and Grey seemed refreshed and reverted to their usual quick-paced, team-oriented sense of play.

Both squads picked up the pace, resulting in three yellow cards and a red card called on Toronto’s Zovel Hyre. The Gees capitalized on the free kick with

I think we were a little nervous. We went on the field scared to lose just because we knew how big this game was.

—Cynthia Leblanc, First-year goaltender

fourth-year defence Gillian Baggott spinning the return into the net for the winning goal.

“I think over the full 90 [minutes] we were able to wear them down,” said Johnson. “You can see it in the second half and they made substitutions of injured players. I just don’t think the other team had as much depth to them.”

Johnson commented on the aggressive nature of their fi rst playoff game, hoping the Gees can keep up their organized play for the fi nal games of the season.

“That’s the playoffs—it’s physical,” he said. “If we can perform like we did in that last 45 minutes, that would be great.”

“It’s hard to be able to dominate a team like Toronto for 90 minutes, so even being able to dominate them for 45 is terrific. We just need to fi nd moments and be able to capitalize on them.” f The Gees will now prepare for the OUA Final Four at Wilfrid Laurier Nov. 5–6.

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This week online: Our production manager and art director attended the Canadian Quidditch Cup. Look for video interviews with key players, as well as an amazing snitch catch.

thefulcrum.ca | Nov. 3–9, 2011

sports | 11

Quidditch takes off at the U of O A brief history

Um, flying?

of the Ottawa

Players run with brooms between their legs.

squad

What’s a qu-waffle?

Mercedes Mueller | Fulcrum Staff

There are three balls in Quidditch.

The white ball is the quaffle and is used to score goals in one of the three hoops (like in basketball— only vertical). The two red balls are called bludgers . These are played just as in dodgeball and can knock the players off their brooms. And of course, there is the snitch.

BLUDGERS, QUAFFLES, BROOMSTICKS—oh my!

While quidditch as played

by Muggles around the world lacks flight and is free of any dubious hexes and jinxes, the

Who plays what, where?

sport—and its growing popularity on campuses across Canada—is nothing short of magical.

Quidditch is based on the game of the same name in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, fi rst adapted from the books by students at Middlebury College in Vermont in 2005. Since then, the sport has evolved from one played recreationally by a handful of students in the United States to a highly competitive sport regulated by the International Quidditch Association (IQA).

The IQA boasts 300 teams from over 13 countries, primarily Canada and the United States, who play with hopes of making it to the annual Quidditch World Cup. Th is year, the competition will host 100 teams and 2,000 athletes in New York this November—including the University of Ottawa’s newly formed squad.

The U of O’s quidditch team got their start last fall when Andrea Hill, captain of Carleton’s quidditch team, challenged the school to start their own team. Tegan Bridge, team co-founder along with team president Deirdre Walters, says the U of

Considering humans do not yet possess the ability to fly, how does a game like quidditch work?

photo by Sarah Baker

SPORTING ON BROOMS Muggle versions of quidditch take over Canadian universities O quidditch team owes a lot to its Carleton counterparts. “[Our fi rst practice] was hosted by Carleton’s team and they explained all of the rules and helped us get on our feet,” said Bridge. “They let us practice with them all through the winter until the end of the semester. Carleton’s team did so much for us—we really owe them a lot for helping us get this off the ground.”

One year later, the U of O has a full executive that governs a 19-player competitive team. Bridge says the team has come a long way from its humble beginnings.

“It was pretty difficult to get people to take us seriously at fi rst,” she recalled.

“We were tabling in the Unicentre, trying to get people interested, and I said to Deirdre, ‘We keep getting weird looks from people.’ And she replied, ‘Of course we’re getting weird looks—we’re trying to start a quidditch team.’”

Players of the sport would agree quidditch requires a certain level of athletic

skill—not just a love of Harry and the gang.

“It takes agility, endurance, teamwork, and a certain flair for footwork,” explained Bridge. “Quidditch players, especially members of the University of Ottawa’s team, are also excellent dancers.”

The U of O team practices about 10 hours per week, working on positionspecific drills and also those related to ball handling, endurance, and speed— skills that all players require. For a game that can be described as an interesting combination of dodgeball, rugby, and hide-and-seek, training sessions for the team are intense.

“Spectators unfamiliar with the game are generally surprised at how demanding it is,” said Bridge. “Our team practices a lot. We’ve been in training for the Canadian and Quidditch World Cups lately and, given how new our team is, we have a lot of catching up to do. That’s reflected in the amount we practice.”

Spectators might also be surprised to

learn the young team trains year round— through rain, cold, and even snow.

“We’re a tough group and we’re Canadian—a little snow won’t hurt us,” said Bridge. “Practice was only cancelled for weather once last year when it was lower than -30 C.” So what’s next for this tough squad of Muggles? Currently, the team is preparing for the Quidditch World Cup after securing their place in the tournament this past weekend. Bridge is especially excited for her team’s performance in two weeks.

“It’s a big deal for me personally, because as of the weekend of the Quidditch World Cup, it will have been exactly a year since I started trying to create a team,” she said. “I honestly had no idea if it was going to work and I’m so excited to see that all of the work we’ve put into this has been worth it.” f After the World Cup, the U of O quidditch team will be recruiting for the winter semester. Email uo.quidditch@gmail.com for more information.

The keeper protects the hoops. The chasers control the quaffle, and they can also tackle other chasers.

Beaters control bludgers. Lastly, the seekers chase the snitch.

How does the snitch work?

The snitch is a neutral player, dressed in yellow, with a sock stuffed with a ball tucked into the back of his or her pants. To catch the snitch, you have to successfully grab the sock.

How do you win?

Each goal is worth 10 points. While catching a snitch ends the game, it does not ensure a win. The team who catches the snitch gains 30 points.

And the U of O catches the snitch!

The U of O shows off its powers at the Canadian Quidditch Cup Michelle Ferguson | Fulcrum Staff

CHASERS WHIZ BY on broomsticks, trying to gain possession of the quaffle while dodging bludger hits and tackles. A shimmer of light appears in the distance as the snitch makes his way back onto the pitch.

Bent over his broom in a mad pursuit, the seeker starts closing in on the golden menace. He quickly circles to the snitch’s right, arm outstretched, fingers straining

to grasp the evasive ball…

This was the scene at—no, not Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry—Carleton University this weekend as the school hosted the first-ever Canadian quidditch tournament on Oct. 29. With eight teams competing, the tournament represented the largest gathering of Canadian quidditch teams to date.

“This is a very important step in contributing to the Canadian quidditch culture,” said Andrea Hill, captain of Carleton’s team and tournament organizer. “I think this has proven the Canadian teams have what it takes to play competitively on the world stage, and I think we are going to see quidditch crop up at more and more universities across Canada.”

Coming off a two victory high, with a score of 90-0 against the University of To-

ronto, and 90-10 against Queen’s University, the U of O’s third game pitted them against McGill University, the top-ranked Canadian team currently sitting eighth in the International Quidditch Association standings.

The match got off to a quick start, the Gees scoring within the first 15 seconds, marking the first time McGill was down all tournament. McGill struck back with a combination of long runs, fancy footwork, and bludger control that ran up the scoreboard for a comfortable 70-30 lead.

“Quidditch requires a lot of endurance, running, and sprinting,” explained firstyear chaser Matthew Bunn. “It requires upper body strength when tackling and a good aim while throwing the quaffles and bludgers.”

After effectively preventing another

McGill onslaught, the U of O was able to break through McGill’s defence in an attempt to bring the score within winning range. The goal was disqualified after officials were informed that the snitch had been caught seconds earlier, resulting in a 70-60 win for McGill.

Next, the Gees faced American contender St. Lawrence University. The scoreboard read 30-30 as the snitch made his way back onto the pitch. St. Lawrence managed to score another two goals while the snitch danced around the seekers. The decisive moment came when speedy U of O seeker, François Cunningham, snuck up on the snitch’s right, ensuring a 60-50 win.

U of O then moved on to face Carleton University in the semifinals. Carleton dominated the quaffle play with quick passes. With Carleton snagging the snitch

on a dive, the game wrapped up 100-10 for the Ravens.

“It was a close game, despite the score,” said Chris Radojewski, co-captain of the U of O Quidditch team. “They managed to get bludger superiority on the field and we really couldn’t get close to their points. But otherwise, defensively, both teams played well.”

The U of O ranked third place in the tournament. First place was awarded to favourite McGill, and second to Carleton.

“I am quite proud of the way my team performed,” said Radojewski. “For their first tournament, they did an excellent job.

I am excited for what they will be able to do in less than two weeks.” f The Gees will be competing at the Quidditch World Cup on Randall’s Island, New York City, Nov. 12–13.

thefulcrum.ca | Nov. 3–9, 2011

12 | sports

November

Varsity BOX STATS: BASKETBALL (W) CONFERENCE: ontario university athletics (oua)

PROVINCIAL RANKING

HEAD COACH:

andy sparks

Competing against the best

TIED FOR 3RD

U of O men’s basketball team on their way to top Katherine DeClerq | Fulcrum Staff

F BOX STATS: BASKETBALL (M) CONFERENCE: ontario university athletics (oua) HEAD COACH: james derouin COURT: montpetit hall 2010 RECORD: 11-11 SEASON OPENER: nov. 11 @ brock university HOME OPENER: nov. 18 vs. windsor

or the first time since 2007, the University of Ottawa men’s basketball team won the Jack Donohue Classic against the McGill Redmen on Oct. 30—an indication of the talent on the squad this year.

Their pre-season included many exhibition games against NCAA Division I and II teams, with the Gees able to keep up with the American talent. Aft er being seconds away from the Canadian Interuniversity Sport Championship last year with a 71-69 loss to Lakehead University, these Gees aren’t taking any chances.

“The team has done well over the last few weeks and fi nishing the pre-season with a 4-2 record,” said head coach James Derouin. “My expectations for the season are to be one of the top teams in the [Ontario University Athletics (OUA)], advance to the fi nal four, and hopefully have a chance to reach nationals.”

With the graduation of forward Nemanja Baletic and starting centre Louis Gauthier, the three rookies recruited by the Gees will have some big shoes to fi ll. Heading the new recruits is first-year

guard Michael L’Africain, who throughout the pre-season games has proven extremely skilled and is expected to make a big impact on the team. Also on the court is fi rst-year forward Vikas Gill from Stittsville, Ont. and guard Serge Grenon from Cantley, Que. In addition, the team will see thirdyear centre Shamus Ferguson transfer from the University of Arkansas.

“The big thing for the team this year will be chemistry. The team has yet to have its full roster for a game,” said Derouin. “But once all the pieces are in place, this could be a really strong year.”

The team will fi nd leaders in fourthyear guard and OUA All-Star Warren Ward and second-year guard Johnny Berhanemeskel. Ward has represented Canada twice this year—fi rst at the International University Sports Federation and currently at the Pan American games. He is also close to breaking the all-time scoring and rebounding record at the U of O. Berhanemeskel succeeded in breaking the rookie scoring records last season and was recently named Most Valuable Player of the Jack Donohue Classic.

Derouin is excited about how the players will work together and use the techniques picked up from their pre-season exhibition games. He wants to invite fans of the Garnet and Grey to their home opener on Nov. 18, and promises that the game will show off the new and veteran talent on the team.

“Th is year’s version of the Gee-Gees is going to be real exciting. With Ward and Berhanemeskel on the wings and rookie L’Africain controlling the ball, this team is [going to] be a lot of fun to watch.” f

COURT: montpetit hall 2010 RECORD: 14-8 SEASON OPENER: nov. 11 @ brock university HOME OPENER: nov. 18 vs. windsor

PROVINCIAL RANKING

6TH

sports | 13

Preview

PROVINCIAL RANKING PROV PR

Melding the team together Women’s basketball team ready to rumble Katherine DeClerq | Fulcrum Staff

T

his season, the University of Ottawa women’s basketball team is all about fi nding that perfect balance between rookie and veteran talent. With nine new players on the team, the Gees will be focusing on creating chemistry on the court in hopes of making it to the top spot in Ontario University Athletics (OUA).

“We have a very solid team with good depth at every position and some outstanding players,” explained head coach Andy Sparks in an email to the Fulcrum. “I believe that if the on-court chemistry comes together we should do a great job representing the school this year.”

“Developing team chemistry both on and off the court is a priority and has been our pre-season focus.”

The Gee-Gees recruiting drive includes two experienced transfers in fi ft h-year Elizabeth Lennox, former AllCanadian at the University of Western Ontario, and fi ft h-year Teddi FirmiKuehn, OUA East Defensive Player of the Year in 2009 from Queen’s University. They will be joining veteran fi ft hyear centre Hannah Sunley-Paisley and fourth-year centre Jenna Gilbert in leading the squad.

Sunley-Paisley fi nished the 2010–11 season with a record of 415 points in 22 games and is a two-time All-Canadian.

Gilbert earned her keep last year after

lle University, transferring from La Salle Pa. Both players saw the he team fi nish sixth last year and will bee working hard UA fi nals. to make a return to the OUA layers will be While the veteran players leading the squad, there is no shortage okies this year. of talent found in the rookies hool, fi rst-year After fi nishing high school, point guard Kellie Ring generated reCAA teams in cruitment offers from NCAA dless, Ring dethe United States. Regardless, cided the U of O was for her and joined the Garnet and Grey last summer. ephen, Ariane First years Maddie Stephen, d Emilie VaLachance-Scantland, and dditions on the chon are also welcome additions court as former provincial cial team athletes. lthough chemSparks explained that although istry has been his priority, he wants to enht to the team is sure the new talent brought ready to play at the same level vel technically.

“With excellent post players and point-guard play, the focus has been on learning to play an uptempo game through our post players on the offensive end of the floor,” he said. “[Also] developing trust and communication on the defensive end of the floor is a work in progress.”

With a 2010–11 record of 14-8, these Gees are ready to meet their challenge of becoming one of the top three teams in the OUA and making it to nationals.

Sparks has faith in his team and firmly believes the Garnet and Grey has the talent and the potential to do just that.

“Gee-Gees fans can expect to see some excellent basketball this year, with athletic post players and quick guard play,” he said. “[It] should be an exciting year and anything is possible.” f The Gees are prepping for their season opener at Brock University on Nov. 11, and look forward to their first home game on Nov. 18 when they host the Lancers.

BOX STATS: VOLLEYBALL CONFERENCE: Ontario University Athletics (oua) HEAD COACH: lionel woods COURT: Montpetit Hall

2010 RECORD: 13-6 Next game @ Windsor on Nov. 5 Next home game: Nov. 20 vs. York

3RD

Same expectations, new season Women’s volleyball team full of new talent Katherine DeClerq | Fulcrum Staff

H

aving already played four games in the 2011–12 season, the University of Ottawa women’s volleyball team is well on its way to the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) playoffs. Their pre-season tournaments saw the Garnet and Grey take home two medals, including a gold at the McMaster Invitational against eight teams from across the province.

With a sixth place standing in the OUA and a record of 13-6 last year, head coach Lionel Woods explained his expectations of the team are the same, and that Gees fans can look forward to watching a determined squad make their way to the championship.

“Our expectations are always the same,” said Woods. “We do expect to compete for

the Ontario championship ... This team is no different. The core of this group won the bronze medal last year, and that just seems to have whet their appetite.”

The team has added three quality rookies to the roster. First-year left-side striker Michelle Earl was a transfer from Abbotsford, B.C., recently named an All-Star at the Under 18 National Championship (Tier 1), aiding her team to the bronze medal. Middle Alix Durivage from Ottawa will also be joining the Gees after placing fi rst in her Under 18 Nationals (Tier 2) along with right-side striker Marianne Pichette from Gatineau, Que. Excited to have these new players on the team, Woods has been focusing his fi rst few games on creating chemistry between the rookie and veteran players.

“Our full starting lineup had not played together until last weekend,” he said. “With all due respect to our opponents, the main focus for this team is fi nding our own rhythm of play and consistency instead of worrying too much about other teams.”

In addition to the three new players, the U of O will see second-year striker Karina Krueger Schwanke fi nally join

the Gees on the court. A transfer from Brazil, Schwanke was unable to play part of last season due to international student technicalities. Through the fi rst few matches, she has proven to be a dominant player on both offence and defence.

The starting lineup will also see thirdyear setter Christina Grail on the front line, as well as fi ft h-year libero and cocaptain Claudia Seguin, last year’s OUA libero of the year.

Woods spoke about the mix of talent on the women’s volleyball team, and how Gees fans will not be disappointed with their skill and dedication to the game.

“We really encourage students to come to games to see a very athletic team who hits hard, hits often, blocks with the best of them, and plays team defence with a ton of determination,” he said.

“Our games are surprising to most who attend for the fi rst time to see volleyball at this level. Our team likes to play fast, exciting volleyball, and if the rate of improvement continues, then I really think the sky is the limit for this group.” f The Gees (3-1) will travel to the University of Windsor to compete against the Lancers (0-3) on Nov. 5.

14 | features

thefulcrum.ca | Nov. 3–9, 2011

I want the world to know Students share their coming-out stories Compiled by Edward Roué | Fulcrum Staff

W

E LIVE IN a country where same-sex marriage has been legal since 2004.

In light of the recent victories for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender

(LGBT) community in New York and within the U.S. military, some may assume that homophobia is waning throughout North America. But, as the ongoing struggles of the LGBT community attests to, this is far from the truth. The recent, tragic suicide of openly gay Ottawa teenager Jamie Hubley has sparked a conversation about the existence of homophobia in Canada, with everyone from John Baird to Rick Mercer pitching in.

As a contribution to the dialogue, five LGBT University of Ottawa students share their coming out stories.

Liberation Coming out is a challenge. The uncertainty of each individual’s reaction becomes a little nugget of fear nestled in your chest that slowly wanes with love and support but, for me, has yet to fully disappear. I had to come out to my family, knowing they would never accept it, and my friends, knowing some of them would hate it. But the one person it was hardest to come out to was myself.

I grew up in southern Alberta in a very conservative, Christian family. There was never any ambiguity in what I was taught about sexuality. I was raised to believe homosexuality was a choice—it was a perversion of God’s creation propagated by sinful modern society.

I was so overtaken by my parents’ rigidly held beliefs that I never even consciously realized I wasn’t straight.

Still, subconsciously, I’ve always known.

Between the ages of 11 and 18, I rarely, if ever, had a guilt- or confusion-free moment. The turning point came last September when I went on exchange to Thailand.

I learned so much about myself last year, not only because I was away from my home environment, but because I really thought about what my beliefs are and about who I am—not what I had been taught to think or be.

In some ways I think I’ll always carry a shred of that earlier guilt and confusion with me, but I can remember the first time I whispered to myself, “I am bisexual.” It was undeniably the most liberating experience of my life.

—Jocelyn Boeré

Taking the harder path When I was 16, I dated the goalie of the girls’ hockey team for three weeks. It was just long enough for her teammates to fi nd out and promptly tell everyone in the school. I really couldn’t understand why they were so interested in who I slept with and why that warranted scary glares in the corridors. I turned to my mother, who until that point was a supportive, open-minded force in my life. She was not supportive or open-minded about this, though.

I walked into the living room, crying, and told her that everyone at school hated me because I was a lesbian. My mother stood perfectly still and didn’t say a word.

A week later she trapped me in the car and yelled at me for two hours while we drove to a camp. She asked me, “How could I possibly tell your grandmother?” and “What have I done to deserve this?”

My mother told me my sexuality “simply wasn’t possible” and, my personal favourite: “It would just be easier if the whole ‘you being gay’ thing would just go away.”

My father, on the other hand, was a much easier sell. He simply told me I was taking the harder path, but he wanted me to be happy. From time to time, my dad and I have stunted, awkward conversations about my being queer. He really tries, but has no idea what to say. It means the world to me though, considering my mother still refuses to believe that my being queer is anything more than a ploy for attention.

The world at large has been much easier to come out to. If someone has a problem with my sexuality, they don’t need

to be part of my life, but the fact that my mother won’t accept it hurts every day.

—Amanda Williams I was the shadow My life growing up in rural Southwestern Ontario was pretty average. I was the socially awkward kid who was bullied a lot and asked if he was gay when

he didn’t even know what sexuality really was.

I started the denial phase when I was 13, spurred on by the playground question and the desire to not let the unpleasant witch who posed it be right.

In Grade 9, a rival of mine came out as gay and the hicks in our school did not enjoy his flamboyant behaviour. I

was frightened and worried they would react the same way if and when I came out.

I fi nally came out in December of my Grade 10 year to my now ex-best friend.

The truth of my sexuality washed over the school in January. Other than a hushed “fi nally,” there was silence. The dominant social powers laid dormant

features | 15

you can’t get out.”

In hindsight I appreciate her concern, but it still grated on my stressed nerves that she thought I could suddenly start liking women.

My father was amazing.

“Are you sure? OK, well, you know you’ve just made life harder for yourself, right?” he asked. “You know people are going to treat you differently and you’re going to get more trouble than other people, right? All right. As long as you know. I will still love you and you will always be my son.”

In the four years I spent attending a very rural school, I was only called the F-word once. I didn’t feel 100 per cent safe, but I never felt threatened. I was the shadow they knew existed but never made a lasting impact in their minds.

—Daniel Arnold

photo illustration by Mico Mazza

and impassive. It seemed we had entered into a non-aggression pact. If I was not flamboyant, they would not be homophobic. It was a sort of “don’t ask, don’t tell” situation.

My family was different. I was blunt and direct. We were seated at the table for our weekly gathering and I blurted out “I’m gay.” No ceremony, no flare—I

didn’t even wait for dessert. Never in my life outside of this moment have I been asked the same question four times in a row.

At fi rst, my mother was concerned.

“Are you sure it’s not a phase? Are you really sure?”

It still tears me apart knowing I’ve made my mother cry as many times as

I have.

My brother was awkward.

“Are you sure? OK...”

That was the last time I ever spoke to him about being gay.

My sister was annoying.

“Are you sure?” she asked. “I know, how about being bisexual! Then you have a backup plan—being gay means

When I say ‘yes’ It was a joke amongst my parents and their friends when I was a child that I was always smiling. When I think back, however, maybe I smiled as a defence mechanism. If I appeared happy, people wouldn’t see the broken wreck I was inside—or so I thought.

I didn’t come out until this year. I was a little drunk, but I remember it, and my friend did, too. We didn’t talk about it much after that, mostly because I still didn’t know how to address it. I was very unhappy with myself and who I was attracted to. It took my friend telling me that I so obviously wasn’t happy—and maybe it was time I actually tried being happy instead of pretending—for me to come out. She gave me the kick in the ass I needed and, in short order, I told the rest of my friends here in Ottawa, as well as a few at home. While I knew no one here would reject me, it was still nervewracking.

Actually telling people has been rather uneventful, which gives me hope for the day that I feel secure enough to walk into my parents’ house and tell them as well.

True to my friend’s advice, this past summer was one I wouldn’t give up for the world. I was able to live my life as I wanted, without trying to hide anything. I was even propositioned in a bar, and if I hadn’t had a friend from home visiting, I probably would’ve gone with it. I’m hoping to run into him again. If I do, I will have a great big smile on my face when I say “yes.”

—Matthew James Leaving the safe bubble “Coming out.” It sounds like a bad movie and it felt like one when my mom acci-

dentally did it for me. She was snooping around in my exchanges of emails with a lover when I walked into the room to fi nd her. We exchanged an entire conversation without uttering one word. We didn’t talk to each other for two days.

Eventually, my mom trapped me alone in the car since she had to drive me to work—I was only 14 years old. She cried and I held her. Her anger, denial, regret, and self-hatred flew before my eyes. My mom promised to never mention a word to my dad, as we both knew he would not allow it.

Years later, on International Coming Out Day, my mom sent me a brief text message notifying me she had told my father. Even though I was in a safe bubble thanks to my queer-positive friends and my new university life, everything around me came crumbling down. My internalized homophobia—a result of my surroundings growing up in a French Acadian city—hit me hard.

One thing I’ve realized is the brutal reality of being queer is the fact that there will always be someone new to “come out” to, such as co-workers, professors, and new friends. I don’t wear an “I AM QUEER” sign on my forehead, but I will tell them as it’s a matter of relevance and my own comfort.

Ultimately, “coming out” exists in many different forms and will always be a part of my life, whether I enjoy it or not.

—Josée Richard

Students struggling with issues related to their sexuality are encouraged to reach out to available resources.

For more information, contact the University of Ottawa’s Pride Centre (located in the Jock Turcot University Centre) at (613) 562-5800 ext.

3161 or pride@sfuo.ca

16 | sports

thefulcrum.ca | Nov. 3–9, 2011

Running through the cold Cross-country runners compete for championship Katherine DeClerq | Fulcrum Staff

DESPITE THE COLD weather, cross-country runners from across the province joined the Gee-Gees at the Terry Fox Athletic Facility on Oct. 29 to compete in the 2011 Ontario University Athletics (OUA) Cross

RUNNING THE MILE

Country Championship.

The women’s cross-country team runs the course

The course, created by

The challenging course did not affect the Gees, with the women’s team improving from last year’s meet, placing 11th with 302 points and the men’s team placing 10th for the second year in a row with 312 points.

“It felt just like a workout,” said firstyear runner Isabelle Kanz of the race. “You just block out all the people. And we knew [the course] right down to what places to avoid because there was a certain hole.

Sand is unusual on cross-country courses,

former Gees athletes Alain Boucher and Nathalie Cote along with U of O head coach Andy McInnis, consisted of steep hills, rough terrain, and a 200M beach section.

photo by Mico Mazza

so we knew how to get around that.”

Kanz finished first for the Gees at 43rd place with a time of 19:43.2 in the fivekilometre race. Following her lead, rookie Justin Jakeman was the first to cross the finish line for the men’s team, placing 44th in the 10-kilometre race with a time of 33:36.4.

“I felt really good. It was my best race of the season,” said Jakeman after the race. “My last few eight-kilometre races I’ve always been too fast on the first five-

Win tickets to this event. <---------Buy a raffle ticket for $1 or three for $2 for a chance to win one of four tickets.

kilometres and then I’d die in the last part.

But this race I felt I ran at a good pace and had a strong finish. So I’m very happy with my run.”

Kanz also felt that she had raced one of her personal bests.

“I’m very happy with how I did. I feel good about how I raced it,” she said.

This year marked the first time the Garnet and Grey hosted the OUA Cross Country Championship, and the runners were thankful for the home course advan-

tage it brought.

“I’m sure it was unpleasant for other runners going on the sand, “ explained Jakeson. “That’s where I usually passed people, on the sand and the hill, because people thought it was harder than it really was and I was just used to running it.”

Regardless of the advantage, the Guelph Gryphon men’s and women’s teams dominated the championship, winning first place for the seventh consecutive year. f

scoreboard 5-3

Football Gees

33

-

50

Lancers

Basketball (M) Gees

90

-

59

Golden hawks

Gees

65

-

59

Redmen

Next:

@ Brock (Nov. 11, 8 p.m.)

vs.

*season opener*

Rugby (W) Tickets are available at our staff meeting Nov. 4, 631 King Edward Ave. @ 1 p.m. or by emailing production@ thefulcrum.ca.

Gees

-

0

44

Rouge et Or

2-3

Hockey (W) Gees

-

6

Next:

2-4

3

Ravens

@ Montreal (Nov. 4, 7 p.m.)

vs.

3-4

Hockey (M) Gees

4

-

2

Gees

0

-

Redmen @ Sports Complex (Nov. 4, 7 p.m.)

Next:

vs.

3

Ravens

ARTS & CULTURE Sofia Hashi | arts@thefulcrum.ca | (613) 562 5931

ARTS&CULTURE

17

Play on—nom, nom, nom New study shows correlation between video games and weight gain Tyler Shendruk | Fulcrum Contributor

RECENT SCIENTIFIC FINDINGS by Jean-Phillipe Chaput, a University of Ottawa professor and Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario researcher, seem perfect for luring headlines. In a study conducted in Denmark approximately two years ago, Chaput discovered that after playing video games, boys tend to eat more than they otherwise would have.

Chaput and his collaborators invited 22 healthy, normal-weight boys between ages 15 and 19 into the lab. The night before the experiment, the boys were instructed not to eat. They arrived at 7:30 a.m. and were all given the exact same breakfast. At 10:30 a.m., they started playing the soccer game FIFA 09 on an Xbox 360 for one hour. Chaput then gave the participants a huge spaghetti lunch. The leftovers were weighed so that researchers could know how much they ate.

The boys usually ate more after gam-

ing. In fact, they ate an average of 163 calories more. Th is may not sound like much compared to Health Canada’s recommendation of 2,450 calories daily, but these extra calories can have a long-term impact according to Chaput.

“Weight gain is just a small but chronic energy gap over time. Even a surplus of 50 calories per day on a chronic basis can lead to 10 kilograms of weight gain over 25 years,” he explains.

Chaput also wanted to know why boys eat more, so he took blood samples while they gamed. The samples told Chaput

illustration by Devin Bearegard

heart rates and blood pressure had gone up, but none of the hormones that trigger hunger were found in the work up.

“It seems that it’s more eating in the absence of hunger. Participants don’t feel [hungrier], but they eat more,” says Chaput.

“It’s not explained by the hormones that trigger hunger, so we think that it’s more related to the mental stress aspect of video gaming.”

Chaput’s fi ndings are less than they would be in an outside setting because his subjects played alone, while kids tend

to play with friends and usually eat more with others. Chaput also didn’t allow any eating during gaming and the boys played for only an hour.

Chaput also looked at males for a couple of reasons: First, they didn’t want to complicate things by having physical gender differences and “because there are more boys than girls playing video games,” says Chaput.

“Although I would like to know if it’s the same thing with girls,” he adds.

What are the next steps for Chaput’s research? Besides studying adults and in-

teractive gaming, Chaput’s says his study is a warning and direct action is needed.

“Do we fi nd this same pattern in adults? We don’t know … The next step is with active video gaming,” says Chaput.

“Of course, we burn more calories when we’re playing this active gaming … but none of those studies have assessed energy intake.”

Chaput adds, “We need to have a better balance between physical work and mental work. We’re doing too much screen time and not enough physical activity.” f

offered by VIA Rail Canada. The program allows a small number of qualified Canadian musicians to receive meals and transportation free of charge in exchange for live performances for passengers while travelling by train.

“It’s a pretty rigorous process,” she explains. “They want to make sure that it’s the right fit of music for train travellers, but it’s an amazing ticket if you can get it … You sort of exchange your room and board for playing concerts.”

The program, which has been in place since 2009, will not only save Atkinson money in transportation costs, but it also provides a novel venue to play her music.

“I expect that it’s going to be similar to house concerts … I don’t know if you’ve been inside an entertainment car on a

train, but it’s fairly close quarters,” says Atkinson. “I think there’s only room for about 20 people maximum, so it’s really intimate.”

The program has a specific type of music in mind; Atkinson notes that she’s been adding new songs to her repertoire of original music in order to fit the VIA Rail bill.

“It’s a lot of folk music, and they want to focus on Canadian music and covers,” says Atkinson.

“So it’s fun. I’ve been learning some Gordon Lightfoot, Stompin’ Tom, and Joni Mitchell. It’s actually really great because I don’t get a lot of occasions to learn covers.”

After years of collaborating with other artists on projects such as Blue Richard

and the Apricots, and Continuum Consort, Atkinson recently released her first solo album, Mooniture, and is excited for travellers to hear her original music from the album alongside her covers of classic Canadian folk tunes.

“For the concept of the record, I just wanted to take all of the aesthetic things that I really enjoy about music¬—sort of chamber music qualities, because I’m very much a classical musician at heart— and combine them with my other interests: Folk music, fiddling, and an eastern f European feel,” explains Atkinson.

For those who are interested in Atkinson’s music, but aren’t taking a trip out to the West Coast anytime soon, Mooniture is currently available for purchase online from Zunior, CD Baby, and iTunes.

All aboard Canadian artist to perform live music for train passengers Keeton Wilcock | Fulcrum Staff

TRAVELLING BETWEEN SHOWS is often a nuisance for Canadian musicians.

The sheer size of our country usually means a national tour will require dozens of idle hours spent on the road. Anna Atkinson, a Toronto-based multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter, is booked to play shows at several venues in Alberta and British Columbia during the month of November—and is well aware of the transportation problem associated

with the bookings.

“I think that one of the huge barriers for touring for musicians in Canada is how huge Canada is,” says Atkinson, who departs from Toronto Nov. 1.

“Not everybody owns a car, and even if you do, just putting gas in it to get you from Toronto to Winnipeg is ridiculous and there’s not a whole lot [of shows] in between.”

For Atkinson, the solution to this problem was taking advantage of the little-known On-Board Musician program

thefulcrum.ca | Nov. 3–9, 2011

arts&culture | 19

From Rome to Ottawa National Gallery of Canada unveils early works of French artists Christopher Radojewski | Fulcrum Staff

AFTER THE STRESS of assignments and midterms, it may not be a bad idea chilling out by National Gallery of Canada’s new exhibit Drawn to Art running until Jan. 2.

It turns out that many of France’s famous artists, whose works are presented in the exhibit, endured the same stress we feel while attending the French Academy in Rome back in the 18th century.

The famed school of art was similar to a current university experience for serious young artists back in the 1700s. Much of the work produced there was sent back to France and some of it was evaluated by the King of France. Not only is this exhibit a great opportunity for students to see art produced by people who were students at the time, but it is beneficial for those currently studying art and art history.

“It’s a full class of art history in itself.

Any student in art history [or] art would love the show,” explains Sonia Couturier, the exhibition’s curator. “For anyone studying [these subjects], I think it is a great experience because visitors will see works that have never [before] travelled outside France or outside Europe and arranged in a comprehensive manner.”

The display, which has a second continuation of the show in

France, boasts paintings from North America and Europe.

“It’s a great collection of 15 paintings and more than 80 drawings … You are seeing works by the artists who [were] about to become extremely important.

[These include] artists like Hubert Robert [and] Jacques Louis David, before they become the artists we know now,” says Couturier.

The show is about more than just visual art. Visitors can also attend talks, lectures, and meetings with the curator to further

that such exhibitions take years to organize. This one took up to seven years, but the long ones take at least five years going through different phases,” she says.

“Starting with an idea that we research, we proceed to make a wish list and then formal requests for loans. [Visitors] see only the final result, but if they keep in mind all the different stages we go through, I think they will appreciate it even more.”

The red chalk sketches, detailed etchings, and paintings are magnificent regardless of the name printed on the placard beside the piece. This particular exhibition is a significant feat, adding to the gallery’s international reputation.

“It is pretty important for future exhibitions because we are organizing an inter-

It’s a full class of art history in itself. Any student in art history [or] art would love the show.

—Sonia Coutirier, Exhibition curator their grasp of the exhibit.

This particular showcase is quite impressive with the number of works and type of artists it displays, and Couturier believes it’s important to keep in mind how much effort and time went into its creation.

“I think it is important to remember

national exhibition [with] a lot of negotiations between [other] institutions. The fact that we have works coming from abroad is f exceptional,” says Couturier.

Check out Drawn to Art at the National Gallery of Canada, running from now until Jan. 2, 2012. For more information visit Gallery.ca/drawntoart.

FOR THOSE WHO LOVE ART HISTORY...

photo by Chris Radojewski

This latest National Gallery exhibit is for you

Get your write on November is the month to take on a novel Sofia Hashi | Fulcrum Staff

HAVE YOU EVER dreamt of becoming a modern-day Agatha Christie? Or how about the next J.K. Rowling? Well, aspiring novelists don’t have to look any further to make that dream a reality. With the 48-Hour Novella-Writing contest and the National Novel-Writing Month happening this month, U of O would-be authors have the opportunity to write either a novella or novel and even see their works published.

48-Hour Novella-Writing contest Students who are hesitant to tackle the daunting task of writing a novel might want to look into the 48-Hour NovellaWriting contest, hosted here at the U of O. “Students basically have one weekend to produce an 18- to 25-page novella, and the best novella wins a small cash prize of $50,” explains Lisa Marie Smith, vp communications for the Undergraduate English Students’ Association (UESA).

“As well [students have the opportunity to] get their work published by the UESA under an official ISBN.” Winning entries are also printed and distributed around campus and some local book stores. Any U of O student can apply—they just have to make sure they register and submit their fi nal work by

the deadline. “[Students] can choose to write wherever they like, but they have to sign up for the contest ... Within a two-hour time slot. From 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. this Friday, iday, [students can] come to the [UESA]] office,” says Smith.

To deter any possible cheating or students working in advance on their novella, the UESA has come up with a new rule this year.

“In the past we’ve worked ... On a trust system. We’ve never had any problems ms in the past where we’ve suspected that students have previously written the work that they’ve submitted,” she says.

“Th is year we are adding in a [new] new] criterion. The students who sign up p for the competition aren’t going to know w the criterion until they sign up [on Friday],” ay],” adds Smith.

Why would any student be interested ested in slaving away on a novella for a whole hole weekend during the middle of the he school year? Smith assures that thee contest allows students to be creative..

“I think the purpose of it is to ....

Provide an incentive for students to o be creative. A lot of the time in university rsity we’re not given the opportunity to be creative and this competition is giving them hem a little incentive because if they do complete the 48-hour novella, they havee an opportunity to get their work published.” hed.”

National Novel-Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) National Novel-Writing Month kicks off this November, and many people across the country are participating by trying to complete a 50,000word novel-writing challenge by the month’s end. While the contest may seem daunting even to seasoned writers, U of O student Swadhi Thanaga Tha naga lasingam thinks the time limit is just part of the fun.

“A bunch of people try and write a [their own] novel in a month. That’s basically the whole premise. You really don’t get anything out of it at the end except you have a book written for yourself.

So it’s kind of rewarding in i tself and d you can go on further if you want and try and get it published,” explains Thanagalasingam.

The U of O third-year English major, who heard of the event th through hrough Facebook, plans on trying to complete her own novel this month. Th rough online forums, participants are directed to-

illustration by Brennan Bova

ward other writers in their own regions.

Community-wide “write-ins,” which allow participants to meet one another and write their novels together in a room, are also o created and hosted.

“We’re all just going to go [somewhere “W forr tthe write-ins] and write for hours,” say ys Thanagalasingam. says Currently a write-in at Café Alt is in C the ttentative stages of planning. Potential auth authors don’t have to go to the write-ins; they can write wherever they please.

“You write on your own time, but most “Y people say they get a lot done during the peop write-ins ... There is something about the write whol whole community aspect,” Thanagalasingam i a says. ing W While there are no guidelines, cash prize incentives, or publishing prizes to be given out at the end of the month, Thanagalasingam an says NaNoWriMo emphas phasizes writing as much as you can over the q quality of the work.

“It’s “ kind of quantity over quality. All pe people are editing themselves while they’re writing and they’ll never fi nish th an novel, right? So the idea is to get it all don done and then you can edit after you’re done.” done f To si sign up for the 48-Hour Novella-Writing contest c visit the Arts Building room 321 on o Nov. 4 from 3 to 5 p.m. For more information infor about the National NovelWri Writing Month, visit Nanowrimo.org.

20 | arts&culture

thefulcrum.ca | Nov. 3–9, 2011

album reviews Adam Cohen

Like a Man | Unsigned

LISTENING TO ADAM Cohen’s latest album, Like a Man, is like reading a journal of memories, love letters, and lullabies. With a slow, comforting, acoustic sound, the Montreal-based artist delivers songs that either spark an emotional response or make you fall asleep.

Cohen delivers an album of stories about a man who has contemplated life and love. His lyrics are simple but loaded with meaning. Cohen’s voice seems wise not only because of the writing, but also the manner in which he delivers his songs. It’s as if he’s contemplating his words in the moment he sings them.

While musically the album fails to take any chances, sticking with simple chords, the lyrics are what give this album weight. The only thing that gives the music any instrumental depth is the variety of sounds used throughout the album, including violin and synth.

Cohen’s storytelling style is powerful, and its simplicity allows the listener to recall his or her own memories of love gained and lost. Ultimately this album is for personal contemplation and is especially relevant to those caught up in thoughts of love and relationships.

—Colin Sutherland

The Balconies The Balconies | Balconies Recordings

Jane’s Addiction The Great Escape Artist Capitol

L

os Angeles band Jane’s Addiction’s fourth studio release might satisfy die-hard fans looking for the same old sound that garnered the group initial fame, but it’s not likely to entice any new listeners.

The 10-track album is full of songs we’ve already heard before— standard Jane’s Addiction, with Perry Ferrell’s vocals pretending to break and screech on the high notes, but remaining idle and background noise the rest of the time. Lead guitarist Dave Navarro continues to make his instrument sound like its wailing or screaming, but doesn’t offer up any decent riffs, which is a letdown given his reputation as a guitar great. The bass on “Curiosity Kills” provides an excellent intro, but the rest of the song falls flat and blends in with the album.

Lyrically, The Great Escape Artist delivers almost nothing—general angry statements directed in a vague direction at an unknown offender are the extent of the band’s message. The only break to this is near the conclusion of the track “End to the Lies” with the almost inspired lines, “You were the foreskin / I was the real head,” but even that’s not very groundbreaking.

The album will likely please fans, but it gives little in the way of innovation or creativity.

—Eleni Armenakis

grades

meh

epic fail fail

legit win

LISTENERS ARE SURE to be enticed by the opening track, “Kill Count” on U of O alumni The Balconies’ latest self-titled EP. From the frenzied guitar riffs to the wonderfully hysteric drumming, The Balconies does an excellent job of whipping its audience into what can only be described as pure, unadulterated excitement.

The rest of the album, while still maintaining a high degree of energy, isn’t nearly as manic as “Kill Count”.

Loyal Balconites will be surprised to find three new versions of songs included in the band’s previous record of the same name. Not very different from the originals, subtle changes in the instrumentals render these new interpretations somewhat flat and may leave fans longing for a bit more depth.

Despite the awkward guitar distortion on “300 Pages” and the removal of some really sweet bass lines in the newer versions, The Balconies has once again produced a solid collection worthy of any music fan’s attention.

If monotonous vocals, static bass riffs, and repetitive drum lines are your thing, by all means, pass The Balconies by. If, however, you’re looking for a little excitement and maybe even some actual talent, pick up a copy of The Balconies’ latest release.

Chances are you won’t regret it.

—Christina Abraham

Maybe Refuge Collision | Unsigned

ANYBODY WOULD BE happy to examine the newly released EP album by Maybe Refuge, a new popalternative rock band from Toronto. Listeners will be pleasantly surprised listening to their four-song EP, Collision.

Unsigned bands typically over-use guitar melodies as an attempt for a music agency to hear them, so it was nice experiencing Maybe Refuge’s balance of background noise and vocals. The band’s vocalist, Joey Nico Than, has soulful vocals comparable to Muse’s front man, Matthew Bellamy, which is pretty hard to achieve.

Without sounding like the typical Top 40 fare, Maybe Refuge accomplishes the fine balance between pop and rock music. The band creates catchy songs without developing any annoying repetition. Any song on the album, especially “Viola”, could be found on mainstream radio.

If you are hoping to compare Maybe Refuge to anything else, Our Lady Peace is a band that first comes to mind. Both have an alternative edge without sounding too punk, emo, or like a whiny metal band.

Maybe Refuge’s sound is rare, and every song on its EP is unique, catchy, and full of energy. It’s only a matter of time before someone turns on their car radio and hears this band come through the speakers.

—Grace Iori

Sarah Slean Land & Sea | Pheromone Recordings

LAND & SEA by Sarah Slean is the perfect album to play in the background. The two-disc release doesn’t carry a manufactured sound, but instead supports a more relatable and authentic sound. It is also unique in how it houses two distinct sounds, which find a way to blend seamlessly into one another.

The first part, Land, has an upbeat, feel-good sound to it. It starts off with “Life”, a song that builds up with every verse and has you anticipating what the rest of the album has in store. Although the rest of the CD sticks to the rejuvenating and energetic theme, every track is still unique.

Sea, on the other hand, is quite soulful. An orchestra accompanies Slean’s voice beautifully, though the disc lacks uniqueness between tracks. Although both CDs possess different sounds, they intertwine to make one great release. Slean creates a two-part album where neither disc overshadows the other.

—Emily Jackson answers from p. 23

thefulcrum.ca | Nov. 3–9, 2011

arts briefS

arts&culture | 21

Whispering Pines Great Canadian Theatre Company

Online dating gets student-specific TORONTO (CUP)—A NEW ONLINE dating website, Datemyschool.com, may soon be making its way to Canada. Created by Columbia Business School students Jean Meyer and Balazs Alexa, the website currently allows students enrolled at over 350 American universities to meet people online who are exclusively within their academic circle of choice. Currently, only those with a post-secondary email address are able to sign up. Users are separated into categories depending on their school and program, and can fi lter out potential dates according to these fields.

Meyer and Alexa began Datemyschool.com after fi nding trouble connecting with people from other departments.

“It so happened that one of our friends from nursing school said there are, like, 80 per cent girls in her program ... and for us at the business school, it’s 80 per cent guys,” says Alexa. “We were thinking, ‘Why isn’t there any other way to communicate between departments of a school?’”

Although some users are in favour of the selectivity of the site, some young Canadians think that being too selective could ruin a potential relationship.

“How do you know where your true love is? I think going into it knowing specifically who you want to fi nd isn’t a good idea,” says a recent Ryerson grad who declined to give her name. The woman, who has used other popular dating sites, says, “That’s not how love works.”

—Solana Cain, the Ryersonian Chick Beer was made especially for you and your vagina VANCOUVER (CUP)—A NEW KIND of beer is taking girls’ nights by storm. Chick Beer, created by American Shazz Lewis, is made especially for women. It’s low in calories and carbs, comes in a pink bottle, and features the company slogan, “Witness the Chickness,” over the image of a little black dress. Six-pack cases of Chick Beer are designed to look like purses, and the beer is said to be less carbonated to avoid any unseemly bloat. Considering that nearly 25 per cent of all beer in the U.S. is bought by women, Lewis seems to have tapped into a previously neglected niche market.

But, according to Scott Anderson, a University of British Columbia philosophy professor who specializes in gender, “The use of derogatory and diminishing stereotypes to categorize women tends to reinforce a sense that women enjoy being treated in ways that are sexualized and unserious.”

Though responses have not been entirely positive, Lewis claims that Chick Beer sends a positive message to women.

“The women who embrace Chick Beer are self-assured, confident, and powerful,” said Lewis. “They believe that fun and sexy are positive traits.

They embrace their femininity, and are bold enough to understand that a word like ‘chick’ can’t hold them back.”

—Anna Zoria, the Ubyssey Lennon relics could fetch up to $160,000 LONDON, U.K.—THE LATEST RELIC from Beatles mega-star John Lennon and his wife Yoko Ono’s famous “Bed-In For Peace” is expected to sell for up to $160,000 at a Christie’s sale of pop culture memorabilia next month in Britain. The placard features the words “bed” and “peace” written by Lennon in black marker, miniature portraits of himself and Ono, their signatures, and “1969 Montreal” scrawled in black marker.

The placard, shown in vintage photos of the event, was taped to the window above Lennon and Ono’s bed at Montreal’s Queen Elizabeth Hotel during their stay from May 26 to June 2, 1969.

“Th roughout the week, the couple sat up in bed in their nightclothes and opened their doors to the worlds’ media, speaking to as many radio and TV journalists, politicians, and counter-culture figures as would listen, with Lennon’s objective being to sell the idea of peace to the world,” states Christie’s catalogue for its Nov. 15 sale of pop and rock memorabilia.

Although Christie’s wouldn’t reveal the identity of the placard’s consignor, the auction house stated that it “was acquired by a freelance sound man who was present in the room as things came to an end.”

—Kiera Obbard

photo courtesy GCTC

ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE Whispering Pines running at the GCTC Sofia Hashi | Fulcrum Staff

IT’S 1987 IN East Berlin. Under Soviet rule, the wall that divides Germany is still intact. This is the setting for Canadian playwright Richard Sanger’s Whispering Pines. The play, which debuted at the Great Canadian Theatre Company on Oct. 28, sets themes of betrayal, pain, and espionage against the greater fight for freedom and truth.

The play follows Renate (Tracey Fernecz), a German painter, who’s in a relatively happy relationship with poet Bruno (Paul Rainville). The couple, living under Soviet rule in East Berlin, finds their lives suddenly disrupted when Thomas (Kris Joseph), a Canadian academic, arrives at their doorstep with stories and presents from the Western world. Week after week during the fall of 1987, Thomas returns to the couple’s dingy apartment for dinner and long discussions about socialism, capitalism, and freedom.

The setting changes for the second half of the play. Almost 20 years after the

fall of Berlin Wall, the three reunite in a Canadian motel run by Renate near Lake Superior—and it’s there where all the lies and deceit told by the characters come unravelled.

Whispering Pines, directed by Brian Quirt, is presented in an unusual way.

The actors repeatedly break the fourth wall and speak directly to the audience while other actors remain in tableau. The script, relatively linear, jumps back and forth between present time and 1987, and the same scenes are sometimes told again from another character’s point of view.

All in all, the play falls somewhere in the middle of wonderful and horrible. The continuous breaks in dialogue and interaction between characters are meant to clarify the plot, but all they really do is disrupt the action, causing the audience to lose interest. The disruptions make it difficult for the audience to connect with the play and give no insight into what the characters feel.

The characters deal with heavy material. Ideas about propaganda, socialism,

and capitalism can be long and dreary.

The play makes politics seem more boring than a session at the House of Commons—a difficult feat for a politically charged play, but there are times when the action is engaging and the story moves along quick enough.

The set is completely bare, aside from a couple of microphones, chairs, a table, and a white screen displaying forest scenery. The simplistic set-up offers a very rustic feel, which fits well with the heavy forest symbolism throughout the play. The emptiness of the stage allows the actors to roam free and leave no area untouched.

Overall, Whispering Pines does a decent job in portraying life during and after the fall of the Berlin Wall. It helps a generation that never experienced communism relate to ideas put forth in the play. It questions our “free” society and ideas about truth in life and in politics.

Even though the play jumps around and is repetitive, it’s well suited for history buffs or people who are interested in the f human side of war.

the fashist Baby, it’s cold outside Sofia Hashi | Fulcrum Staff

AS THE SEMESTER slowly trudges along and the temperature continues to drop, it’s easy to get stuck in a vortex of study, essay, exam, repeat. With our minds set on the short-but-sweet winter vacation only a couple months away, it’s easy to let our wardrobe suffer and become as dull as the weather. It’s time to abandon your fall leather boots, thin coats, and light cardigans and brace yourself for the harsh Canadian winter. Here is some style advice for those who want to look chic and feel warm this winter.

Practicality always wins In fashion, it’s easy to forgo comfort and go with whatever looks good, but if you’ve ever spent a winter in Ottawa, you know your feet won’t forgive you. While it’s nice to have the cutest pair of booties on, is it really that practical to wear non-water-re-

sistant shoes in the slush and snow? If you want to look good and have warm feet all season long, look for boots that will keep your feet dry. Make sure that the boots hit at least mid-ankle length to keep snow at bay. Choose a neutral-coloured boot, like black or brown, to go with most of your outfits—and voila! You have a chic boot that’s going to get the job done.

Colour me winter wonderful Winter is the bleakest season by far. With all the different shades of grey, dull skies, and bare trees, it’s easy to make your wardrobe mimic the scenery. If you’re feeling a little colour starved and want to stand out from the sea of grey, find a vibrantly coloured coat. Fire engine red or cobalt blue are always stunning options. For the more fashion-minded, choose a mustard yellow or deep purple, the must-have colours of the season. Just make sure your jacket is

thick enough to keep you warm. What’s great about choosing a coat for colour is that it doesn’t matter whether you choose a pea coat or longer coat—either style will look fantastic.

Oversized knit, anyone?

Chunky knit sweaters are not just for your grandma or reserved solely for the holidays. In fact, oversized knit sweaters are making a comeback in guys’ and girls’ fashion. This unisex item of clothing is perfect for keeping you warm on the colder nights and easy to throw on for the days you’re in a rush. Toss one on with a pair of straight-leg trousers or jeans, pair it with your boots, and you have an outfit that took less than five minutes to put together.

Darker and subtler hues are always easier to match with your winter accessories.

Reach for a knit sweater on days where f you want to look effortlessly chic.

DISCOVER FORTY CREEK WHISKY

Rated #1 Tonight, You Be The

Judge.

Gold Medal Beverage Testing Institute, Chicago, 2011

Next Wednesday, Nov. 9, the Fulcrum is hosting its first-ever journalism meet and greet.

Experts, Fulcrum alumni, and current Fulcrumites will rally to learn more about the biz and enjoy some drinks and free appetizers. A silent auction will also take place.

Gold Medal International Whisky Competition, 2010

Distiller of the Year Whisky Magazine, Icons of Whisky Canada, 2008

Pioneer of the Year Award

Time: 4:30â&#x20AC;&#x201C;9:30 Location: The Honest Lawyer, 141 George St.

Malt Advocate Magazine, 2007

Double Gold Medal San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Gold Medal Winner The World Selection, Brussels

Be there!

Enjoy Forty Creek Responsibly.

Fo rtyCreekWhisky.com

Picking your news since 1942.

FEATURES Kristyn Filip | features@thefulcrum.ca | (613) 562-5258

23

DISTRACTIONS

Dear Di...

Dear Di, I have a problem: I’m sleeping with two guys right now, which is great, except for the fact that they both have tiny penises! Nothing turns me off more than when a guy’s pants fall to the floor and I find a little baby carrot staring me in the face rather than a giant cucumber. How can I tell if a guy has a big cock before I get him into the bedroom?

—Need Bigger Meat Dear NBM, Short of pretending to faint and “accidently” grabbing his penis to break your fall— which I strongly advise against—there’s little you can do to accurately determine the size of a man’s meat prior to unzipping his pants. Contrary to popular belief, there is no correlation between the size of a hottie’s hands, feet, and dick, so don’t bother sneakily stealing a peek at his shoes or winter gloves.

I think what you need to do is adjust your attitude—sometimes good things come in small packages. Admittedly, pulling off a partner’s pants for the penis premiere and finding a “little baby carrot” can be somewhat disheartening, but give the guy a chance. He may be a master with his tongue or divine with his digits. You’ll never know if you don’t try.

I suggest you take a bit more responsibility for your own sexual pleasure—your orgasm should not be dependent on whether or not a man is packing massive meat. The next time you’re with a less-than-well-endowed lad, hop on top, lean forward, and grind your clitoris into his pelvic bone. Doing it doggy-style will also work wonders— keep your ass in the air and your face and chest on the mattress for optimal results.

The moral of the story is this: A supersized sausage does not necessarily equal good sex. A partner’s ability to make you see stars in the sack is dependent on much more than the girth of their genitals. Stay positive, let your sex buddy surprise you, and above all, be an active participant in your own orgasm.

Love, Di

Dear Di, I recently joined a kickboxing club and I’m starting to like the instructor there. I went ahead and asked for his number and we are texting, which is big to me since I haven’t dated a lot. The problem is that I’ve been told my personality is childlike and I’m afraid this guy will only see me as a little sister or friend. I’m also worried he might be too involved in his sport to be interested in dating.

—Dating and Kickboxing Rookie Dear DKR, Kudos! Asking for someone’s phone number is a big—and oftentimes terrifying—step, so pat yourself on the back.

You’ve made it through the fi rst hoop!

Having the guts to put yourself out there like that is a very adult thing to do, so I must ask you to reflect: What do your friends mean by “childlike?” Are you energetic, idealistic, and youthful?

Or is “childlike” a euphemism for “immature?” If you’re of the former variety, then there’s a great chance this kickboxing cutie will be attracted to your upbeat energy. If you have an inkling that your friends are perhaps trying to nudge you in a more grown-up direction, you may want to do some soul-searching before further pursuing this guy.

Assuming your pals are simply complimenting your young-at-heart person-

ality, your only problem is ensuring this dude sees you as girlfriend material and not the little sister he never had. The fact that the two of you are doing the texting tango is a good sign, but if you want to stay out of the friend zone, you’ll have to step it up—pronto. Make it obvious that you’re ogling his goods, not just his killer kickboxing skills. Chat him up after class and ask him about his life beyond the gym. Is he a student? Native to Ottawa?

These are questions that won’t creep him out, but will make it clear you care about more than his instructor credentials. Let the conversation flow naturally and see where it goes.

To respond to your last concern, I highly doubt your crush is too consumed by kickboxing to have little interest in dating. On the off chance that he can’t seem to stop talking about his sport, then perhaps your fears are founded. If this is the case, cut your losses and move on.

With your newfound dating confidence and athletic skill, you’ll be sure to snag a sweetie in a snap.

Love, Di Questions for Di? Email deardi@thefulcrum.ca or find her on Twitter (@Dear_di) or Facebook (Di Daniels)

Sexy Sidenote: Studies show that more than half of British women wear a D-cup-sized bra or larger, which makes them the biggest-breasted ladies in all of Europe. Jolly good!

answers on p. 20 Puzzles provided by BestCrosswords.com. Used with permission.

“With Apologies to the Who” | XKCD

Across 1- Bring to mind; 6- Malfunction; 11- Capp and Capone; 14- Nigerian city; 15- Path; 16- Back muscle, briefly; 17- “MASH” name; 18- Motherhood; 20- Boxer Laila; 21- Bunches; 23- Golfer Calvin; 24- More pleasant; 26- Delicate net; 28- Absence of passion; 30- Insurgent; 31- Cavalry weapon; 32- Spiral; 33- Where some vets served; 36- Foot part; 37- Be silent, musically; 38- Fresh-water fish; 39- Driving aid; 40- Dispute; 41- Crowbar; 42- Facial expression used by Elvis Presley; 43Separate; 44- Muslim opponent of the Crusaders; 47- Fundamental; 48- Nicholas Gage book; 49Offers a price; 50- Actress Merkel; 53- Cut up; 56- Lowermost deck; 58- Hail, to Caesar; 59- Bridget Fonda, to Jane; 60- Castle water pits; 61- After taxes; 62- Small nails; 63- Causing goose bumps Down 1- Poet Pound; 2- South African river; 3- Decree; 4- Sportage maker; 5- Otalgia; 6- Defense covering; 7- Cover; 8- Boy king; 9- Salt Lake City athlete; 10- Confuse; 11- Extra-terrestrial being; 12Starbucks order; 13- Eye sores; 19- Singer Sedaka; 22- “Conquest of Space” writer Willy; 25- Need a scratch; 26- Donnybrook; 27- Slightly; 28- Came down to earth; 29- Sheet of stamps; 30- Happen again; 32- Broadway actress Uta; 33- Boat-shaped; 34- Served perfectly; 35- Nothing more than; 37- Corner; 38- Hindu mother goddess; 40- Aged; 41- Supple; 42- Lacking; 43- June honoree; 44- Four-door; 45- In play; 46- Adjust to zero; 47- Waits; 49- “Loser” musician; 51- Words of denial; 52- Church recess; 54- The Company; 55- Gumshoe; 57- Fish eggs

It happened this week in history

THE FULCRUM 1988 We report that three U of O students were ticketed for trespassing when they ran across the Queen’s University football field during a halftime show.

OTTAWA 1995 Prime Minister Jean Chrétien’s wife Aline is accosted by a knife-wielding intruder in the hallway of their 24 Sussex Drive home. She escapes unharmed but security measures are increased on the property.

CANADA 1985 Canadian Red Cross starts testing donated blood for HIV.

The WORLD 1922 A team led by British archaeologist Howard Carter finds the entrance to Pharaoh Tutankhamun’s tomb.

24 | features

thefulcrum.ca | Nov. 3–9, 2011

thethryllabus Music Nov. 3: Sandro Perri and Ryan Driver play Raw Sugar Café (692 Somerset St. W.), 9 p.m.

(1233 Wellington St. W.), 7:30 p.m.

play Dominion Tavern (33 York St.), 8 p.m.

Nov. 7: The Brains plays Mavericks (221 Rideau St.), 7 p.m.

Nov. 12: Cuff The Duke and Hooded Fang play Mavericks (221 Rideau St.), 9 p.m.

Nov. 3: Lifestory: Monologue and Brighter Brightest play Café Dekcuf (221 Rideau St.), 7 p.m.

Nov. 8: Mayhem, Keep of Kalessin, Hate, Abigail Williams, and Woe play Mavericks (221 Rideau St.), 8 p.m.

Nov. 3: The Brains plays Mavericks (221 Rideau St.), 9 p.m.

Nov. 4: Pretty Little Death Machine, Celery Troff, Prett Melberts and The Best Friend Patrol, and The Cowards play Avant Garde Bar (135 Besserer St.), 7 p.m.

Nov. 4: The Class Assassins, The Loose Cannons, Machine Gun Dolly, and The Boxcar Cadavers play Café Dekcuf (221 Rideau St.), 8 p.m.

Nov. 4: Slim Cessna’s Auto Club and Dry River Caravan play Dominion Tavern (33 York St.), 9 p.m.

Nov. 6: Craig Cardiff and Rose Cousins play Irving Greenberg Theatre Centre

Want your event listed on the thryllabus? Email events@thefulcrum.ca

Now–March 18: The works of Louise Bourgeois displayed at the National Gallery of Canada (380 Sussex Dr.) Nov. 4–Nov. 27: James Huctwith’s Memory Night displayed at La Petite Mort Gallery (306 Cumberland St.)

at the Mayfair Theatre (1074 Bank. St.), 6:30 p.m.

Nov. 10: Cave of Forgotten Dreams plays at the ByTowne Cinema (325 Rideau St.), 5 p.m.

Visual art

Film

Nov. 10: Moneyball plays at the Mayfair Theatre (1074 Bank St.), 7 p.m.

Nov. 9: Death Angel, Aggressor, and Joe Thrasher play Mavericks (221 Rideau St.), 7 p.m.

Now–Nov. 6: Cal Lane’s Sweet Crude displayed at the Ottawa School of Art (35 George St.)

Nov. 3: Easy Rider plays at the ByTowne Cinema (325 Rideau St.), 9:05 p.m.

Nov. 10: Rise of the Planet of the Apes plays at the Mayfair Theatre (1074 Bank St.), 9:45 p.m.

Nov. 9: Jon Lajoie plays Bronson Centre Theatre (211 Bronson Ave.), 7 p.m.

Now–Nov. 12: Art by Emilio Chapela displayed at the SAW Gallery (67 Nicholas St.)

Nov. 4: Starbuck plays at the ByTowne Cinema (325 Rideau St.), 6:50 p.m.

Nov. 11: House by the Cemetary plays at the Mayfair Theatre (1074 Bank St.), 11:15 p.m.

Nov. 10: Malajube and The Besnard Lakes play Ritual (137 Besserer St.), 8 p.m.

Now–Nov. 13: Takao Tanabe’s The Seasons displayed at the Ottawa Art Gallery (2 Daly Ave.)

Nov. 11: Sainthood Reps plays Café Dekcuf (221 Rideau St.), 9 p.m.

Now–Nov. 20: Decolonize Me displayed at the Ottawa Art Gallery (2 Daly Ave.)

Nov. 11: Trampled By Turtles and Jonny Corndawg play Mavericks (221 Rideau St.), 8 p.m.

Nov. 11: GARAGA and Shakey Aches

Now–Nov. 25: Camille Brisebois and the National Capital Network of Sculptors showcase displayed at the Shenkman Arts Centre (245 Centrum Blvd.)

Nov. 4: Tower Heist and A Very Harold and Kumar 3D Christmas released to theatres Nov. 7: The Skin I Live In plays at the ByTowne Cinema (325 Rideau St.), 6:50 p.m.

Nov. 9: Carry on, Sergeant! plays at the ByTowne Cinema (325 Rideau St.), 7 p.m.

Nov. 9: The Heart of Auschwitz plays

Nov. 11: Immortals, J. Edgar, Jack and Jill, and Melancholia released to theatres Nov. 12: The Room plays at the Mayfair Theatre (1074 Bank St.), 11:15 p.m.

Nov. 13: The Whistleblower plays at the ByTowne Cinema (325 Rideau St.), 8:40 p.m.

Theatre Now–Nov. 5: Dr. Cook’s Garden plays at the Ottawa Little Theatre (400 King Edward Ave.) Now–Nov. 5: Salt-Water Moon plays at the National Arts Centre (53 Elgin St.)

EVENT MANAGEMENT

Now–Nov. 13: Whispering Pines plays at the Great Canadian Theatre Company (1233 Wellington St. W.) Nov. 7–19: And Slowly Beauty plays at the National Arts Centre (53 Elgin St.)

POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE From trade shows to cultural festivals; from sporting events to fashion shows; from conferences and meetings to weddings: this program offers the unique skills you need to launch your career as a: • • • • • • • •

Event Coordinator Marketing Assistant Special Events Organizer Promotion Coordinator Account Representative Trade Show Planner Conference Coordinator Corporate Meeting Planner

Now–Nov. 19: I Do Not Like Thee, Dr. Fell plays at the the Gladstone Theatre (910 Gladstone Ave.)

HELPING STUDENTS SAVE FOR THE FINER THINGS IN LIFE

– like 3-ply toilet paper.

Nov. 11–20: White Christmas plays at the Centrepointe Theatre (101 Centrepointe Dr.) Sports events Nov. 4: Ottawa Senators play the Montreal Canadiens at Scotiabank Place (1000 Palladium Dr.), 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 5: Men’s hockey: Gee-Gees play the Royal Military College Rocky Bears at the Sports Complex (801 King Edward Ave.), 7 p.m.

University & College

STUDENT COMBO

Nov. 9: Ottawa Senators play the New York Rangers at Scotiabank Place (1000 Palladium Dr.), 7:30 p.m.

t Movie Admission t Regular Popcorn t Regular Fountain Beverage

Nov. 12: Women’s hockey: Gee-Gees play the University of Montreal Carabins at the Sports Complex (801 King Edward Ave.), 7 p.m.

SAVE 33 % M O RE T H AN

Miscellaneous happenings Nov. 4–6: 48-Hour Novella-Writing Contest held by the Undergraduate English Students’ Association Nov. 9: The Fulcrum’s Journalism Meet and Greet at the Honest Lawyer (141 George St.), 4:30 p.m

CAPITOL16, 7 CINEMAS t 213-223January PRINCESS8,STREET Offer not validEMPIRE December 2011 through 2012. Offer expires April 30, 2012. Visit empiretheatres.com/studentcombo for more details.

business.humber.ca

WITH THREE LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU:

Empire 7 Cinemas Empire Rideau Centre Cinemas Empire Theatres Orléans 3752 Innes Road 111 Albert Street, 3rd Floor 50 Rideau Street

Nov. 11–15: Free Thinking Film Festival at the Bronson Centre (211 Bronson Ave.) and Library and Archives Canada ( 395 Wellington St.)

nov. 3–13

OPINIONS Jaclyn Lytle | executive@thefulcrum.ca | (613) 562-5258

25

OPINIONS

We must ban the blood ban

Students share their view of Canada’s blood ban IN LIGHT OF the recent change in U.K.’s ban on the use of blood donated by homosexual males, the Fulcrum asks: Should gay men have the right to donate blood in Canada?

“Yes, of course they should. Denying gay men the right to donate blood based on their higher statistics of HIV is ... just silly and ludicrous.”

—Sam Crowe* “Of course they should. I assume that any blood that is donated is tested for HIV before being given to patients anyway.”

—Shanna Stanley-Hasnain “Of course.”

—Darrell Bartraw “Hells no.”

—Alex Suth* “The rule is left over from when HIV was considered a homosexual problem only. It’s just bigotry that we need to take off the books.”

—Eleni Armenakis

photo courtesy CUP

BANDING TOGETHER TO BAN THE BLOOD BAN U.K. change to blood donation laws not progressive enough

U.K.’s new blood donation policy isn’t progressive enough Camille Chacra | The Link

MONTREAL (CUP)—ON SEPT. 8, the United Kingdom’s Health Department announced that, as of November, gay men will be allowed to give blood—if they have refrained from any form of sexual contact for an entire year.

Although deemed progressive by some, this newly established concession is actually more ignorant than it is groundbreaking.

In light of the U.K.’s new stance, Canada may reconsider its own policy, as it is currently one of many countries that

forbid gay men from donating blood at all. It’s great that the U.K. wants to be “progressive” and “tolerant,” but hopefully our country can realize that our mother country’s recent announcement is neither of the above. On the contrary, this “lightened” ban is more of a colossal slap in the face than a step in the right direction.

“Blood donation eligibility criteria should be based on individual behaviour, backed by advanced screening, not on sexuality,” wrote Nursing Times reporter Steve Ford.

Although it is crucial that blood donation agencies follow strict protocol that requires their donors to be tested for any medical, sexual, or drugrelated blips, they shouldn’t assume that HIV is exclusively a homosexual disease.

Best Health magazine recently reported that, in a 2010 issue of the Canadian Medical Association Journal, Mark Wainberg, a prominent researcher in the field of HIV/AIDS, argued the ban is illegitimate. He wrote, “The risk of a

false negative on an HIV test has been nearly eliminated since Canada’s blood system began using a highly sensitive nucleic acid test to screen blood.”

Blood donation eligibility criteria should be based on individual behaviour, backed by advanced screening, not on sexuality.

—Steve Ford, Nursing Times

If health systems are able to thoroughly screen blood, why must gay men kiss their libidos goodbye for an

entire year in the U.K.? More importantly, with the technological advances the world has seen, why wasn’t this ban abolished sooner?

The only real reason for these full or partial bans must be called what it is— flagrant discrimination.

Partially lifting the ban in the U.K. just isn’t good enough. The gay community is asking for complete equality—something it deserves. It is nonsensical to stereotype a group based on sexual orientation, depriving them of the fundamental right to donate clean blood.

Shame on the members of the U.K. Health Department. They shouldn’t be patting themselves on the back: What they’ve done wasn’t progressive. It was discriminatory. If they want to earn their kudos, they should abolish the ban, use the technology available to effectively screen blood, and stop hiding behind dated stereotypes. As for Canada, we should learn from the mistakes made across the pond, and make a change that actually moves us forward. f

“I believe gay men should be allowed to donate blood. I feel that although the instances of HIV/AIDs are significantly higher in the gay population, the gay population is also a lot more cognisant of that fact and check themselves more frequently than their hetero counterparts.

Although I have had no concerns about my HIV status, I have gone to a sexual health clinic to get the test just to be sure, as is the case with a number of my gay friends. Whereas I don’t think any of my straight friends have ever attended a sexual health clinic.

I think that the safety of our blood supply rests in improved screening and detection techniques. There is no population that is unaffected

by HIV/AIDS, and as such, you can never protect our blood supply by excluding target groups from donating.”

—Andrew Wing *Name has been changed.

26 | opinions

thefulcrum.ca | Nov. 3–9, 2011

Students get their say

Jaclyn Lytle | Fulcrum Staff

Ready, set, grow!

CANADA’S FIFTH ANNUAL Movember campaign officially began on the fi rst of the moustache month. The initiative, which originated in Australia, will see thousands of men grow their facial hair during November to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research. Last year, the Movember campaign was the motivation behind over 100,000 moustaches, the owners of which raised $22.3 million in Canada alone. Is the cause behind this campaign enough to make you embrace facial hair for now, or is growing a moustache an all-too-easy and all-toosilly initiative that detracts from the seriousness of prostate disease, which affects an estimated one in seven Canadian men?

I reckon they’ve got the consumption TWO HOMELESS MEN living in downtown Victoria, B.C. have tested positive for tuberculosis. The infectious disease, which has been largely eradicated in North America, can become highly contagious if it reaches the lungs of those affected. Transmitted mainly by coughing, the disease can be caught if an individual has prolonged close contact with a sufferer. While most Canadians are inoculated against tuberculosis in their early youth, the announcement of these two most recent cases have inspired some panic amongst Victoria residents. Is it reasonable that this small, sudden outbreak become an active concern in the community, or should Canadians pipe down and be thankful our rate of infection stays below the 10 per cent mark while other countries grapple with a rate closer to 80 per cent?

Love isn’t all you need A RECENT TELL-ALL interview by his supposed one-time mistress has celebrity Asthon Kutcher on the road to divorce, according to tabloid reports.

Kutcher, married to actress Demi Moore since 2005, has not confi rmed the reports, but has taken to Twitter, posting cryptic messages that indicate a touch of marital discord. Given that Moore is a full 15 years senior to her goofy groom, much of the talk surrounding the controversy has centred on the idea that she should have seen this coming when she involved herself with a much younger man. Is it fair to lay blame with Moore for her husband’s infidelity, or is Kutcher just a cheating cad that couldn’t see how good he had it?

Care to comment? Tell us what your opinion is at Thefulcrum. ca/category/opinions/.

photo courtesy Sun Media

I CAN READ THE BEEF AND SWISS PART But what the heck else is on this sandwich?

U of O students sound off on campus bilingualism Jaclyn Lytle | Fulcrum Staff

THIS PAST WEEK, while some students were enjoying a much-needed vacation and others were catching up on assignments and readings without the burden of attending class, the Fulcrum saw one of its articles hit national television. On Oct. 24, an interview with yours truly was aired on Sun TV’s Byline with Brian Lilley. The segment, which ran six minutes in length, focused on a recent opinion piece published in the Fulcrum that discussed the problem with having unilingual signage on a bilingual campus.

The response was astounding. Day after day, messages of criticism and support have come pouring in. Students had more than a mouthful of input to offer.

A francophone with the same problem I believe that the sign at the Quiznos stand in question was placed after I complained last year on the unilingual English sign and staff ! I suppose the closest thing to a bilingual sign they could easily fi nd was what Quiznos uses in Quebec, which clearly doesn’t give an equal place to English.

I understand the basis of your complaints, but I must say that I am a bit baffled that you would portray the University of Ottawa as a place where French dominates. More than six months after raising the issues with the university, I still cannot fi nd help for uOzone in French or use a photocopier with a French interface.

The issues are also quite different between the French and English language.

For the francophones, the University of Ottawa is the only place outside Quebec where several programs are offered. It is

a question of having a place that allows the francophone community to continue to exist and express itself in an anglodominant country and world.

For the anglophones, it is simply another university, with characteristics that annoy some of them. Believe me, the fact that you sometimes have to deal with people with accents is nothing compared with having to spend a life in a language that is not your own.

—Daniel Wirz, U of O student Language in sports Shame on you for your biased appearance on our Canadian Fox News, Sun TV. Not only did you take one of the rare Frenchonly signs at the University of Ottawa and make a generalization about it, but you lied when you said that the U of O is getting more and more francophone.

I write for the sports section of La Rotonde, and everything is in English. From the score sheets, to the coaches press points, to the U of O cheers, to my fellow colleagues. It’s all English. Th is is a small example out of many, so don’t give that “more and more French” shit. It’s absurd.

On your Facebook page it says that you are open to new things. I would say that the French language and culture would be one thing you should consider opening yourself to.

—Vincent Rioux, U of O communications student Long-time language suffering I am a French student of the University of Ottawa. Since I was little, I have had troubles being served in my own language everywhere I went. Malls, movie theatres, restaurants: It was almost impossible to be served in French.

Since I was young, I have had to learn English even though we are in a bilingual country. To be understood, I had to work hard and learn English even if my language is French. So, you were probably served in English, your language, but the signs were in French and you complain about that?

Every day I get served in English, not my language, and signs are in English, still not

my language.

I guess I should go on a TV show and complain about how that is unfair. I think this show was really disrespectful for all the French Canadians who are forced to learn English. Why don’t you just learn French like we had to learn English?

We French Ontarians, if we want to stay in our province and study in French, we are forced to go to a bilingual university. English Ontarians have the choice to go to a bilingual university or an English one. You decided to go to a bilingual university, so obviously there are some French signs. You see one French sign and you complain, so should we complain every time we see only English signs at the U of O? —Valérie Nathalie Chartrand, U of O lettres francaises student Deeply disappointed I’m not angry or insulted, but saddened.

Saddened because this is an issue francophones have been dealing with ever since I can remember. Not only on signs, but also in correspondence from the administration and the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa. I’m registered in a French program, but when I was in my third year, I was forced to take classes in English because my program didn’t offer my required courses in French.

Why is it that the first time anyone ever mentions an issue with available English signs, you write an article in the Fulcrum and go to Sun TV with this?

How does this particular event outweigh the countless times francophones had issues getting service in French?

We pay the same tuition, yet we don’t get the same service. I want our school to be bilingual. Like I mentioned, I didn’t even get the option to study in my language of choice for half of my program.

Some friends and I had some issues with bilingualism at the 1848. Did we go to the media? No, we politely told them, and even helped them translate their menus.

We could have gone to La Rotonde, but why make a big deal when you can reasonably deal with it like adults?

Was all this really necessary? Or did you just widen the gap between francophone and anglophones? I want our school to be bilingual, I really do. But by making a big deal out of one sign at one shop, without even contacting the administration fi rst and foremost—well, it just makes me afraid there’s no hope.

Please, if what I say makes any sense to you, fi nd a way to patch what you have done. It’s not too late to post an erratum, or an apology.

—Manuel Belmadani, U of O science student Some words in support Don’t listen to those who are giving you flack. Fact is, if a university claims to be bilingual, it has a responsibility to its students to provide information in both of its respective languages at all times. You made great points that need to be addressed.

—Kaitlin Sweenie, recent U of O grad I so agree with your opinion piece. I thought that since I started at the U of O four years ago. I have graduated now, but it was defi nitely an obstacle at times and I even have a working knowledge of French.

I sometimes didn’t even order food at certain spots on campus because if I wanted to try something new I wasn’t sure what it was called in English and I was afraid to guess at what I was ordering in French if I was unclear on the signs.

As you mentioned, it is not just menus that are an issue, but other essential signage and communications as well. Great job putting this issue out there. I hope something is done about it.

—Megan O’Meara, recent U of O grad Editor’s Note: Contrary to the belief of some commentators, I did not initiate Sun Media’s coverage of my article. I was approached by staff at Byline with Brian Lilley and asked to discuss my article. No other information about the nature of the Sun TV coverage was available to me until after the segment was aired.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mercedes Mueller | editor@thefulcrum.ca | (613) 562-5261

27

EDITORIAL

Protecting our own

Volume 72, Issue 10, Nov. 3–9, 2011 Drinking Butterbeer since 1942.

Phone: (613) 562-5261 | Fax: (613) 562-5259 631 King Edward Ave. Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5 Recycle this, or “crucio!”

staff Mercedes ‘Mudblood’ Mueller Editor-in-Chief editor@thefulcrum.ca Michelle ‘mandrake’ Ferguson Production Manager production@thefulcrum.ca Jaclyn ‘locomotor mortis’ Lytle Executive Editor executive@thefulcrum.ca Mico ‘Mad-Eye Moody’ Mazza Art Director design@thefulcrum.ca Jane ‘Lupin’ Lytvynenko News Editor news@thefulcrum.ca Sofia ‘sorting hat’ Hashi Arts & Culture Editor arts@thefulcrum.ca Kristyn ‘Firebolt’ Filip Features Editor features@thefulcrum.ca Katherine ‘Dementor’ DeClerq Sports Editor sports@thefulcrum.ca Charlotte ‘crucio’ Bailey Online Editor online@thefulcrum.ca Christopher ‘Rememberall’ Radojewski Associate News Editor associate.news@thefulcrum.ca Ali ‘snitch’ Schwabe Copy Editor Keeton ‘wand’ Wilcock Staff Writer Sam ‘Severus Snape’ Cowan Staff Proofreader Joshua ‘potions’ Pride Volunteer & Visibility Coordinator volunteer@thefulcrum.ca

illustration by Devin Beauregard

Danielle ‘Death eater’ Vicha General Manager business.manager@thefulcrum.ca Deidre ‘Butterbeer’ Butters Advertising Representative ads@thefulcrum.ca

contributors Christina ‘Comet 260’ Abraham Eleni ‘Albus’ Armenakis Daniel ‘Dumbledore’s Army’ Arnold Sarah ‘Sirius Black’ Baker Darrell ‘bludger’ Bartraw Devin ‘Deathly Hallows’ Beauregard Manuel ‘McGonagall’ Belmadani Jocelyn ‘Buckbeak’ Boeré Brennan ‘Basilisk’ Bova Valérie Nathalie ‘Neville’ Chartrand Victoria ‘Dudley Dursley’ Dudys Grace ‘Gryffindor’ Iori Emily ‘Elder wand’ Jackson Jevon ‘James’ James Matthew ‘Muggle’ James Graham ‘Maurauder Map’ Mac Vannel Megan ‘Occlumency’ O’Meara Kiera ‘Krum’ Obbard

Nate Gibbs ‘Ginny’ Remenda Josée ‘reducto’ Richard Vincent ‘Voldemort’ Rioux Edward ‘Mirror of Erised’ Roué Tyler ‘scar’ Shendruk Alex ‘Slughorn’ Smyth Shanna ‘sectumsempra’ Stanley-Hasnain Colin ‘Slytherin’ Sutherland Alex ‘Azkaban’ Suttie Kaitlin ‘Chamber of Secrets’ Sweenie Amanda ‘wizardry’ Williams Andrew ‘witchcraft’ Wing Daniel ‘Wormtail’ Wirz

cover art by Mico Mazza

BASED ON THE outpour of responses to our executive editor’s appearance on Sun TV last week, it is obvious that students at the University of Ottawa support the protection of minority rights on campus. Considering Canada prides itself on the protection of its citizens’ cultural and civil rights, speaking up on behalf of a minority group is a very Canadian thing to do.

One group our governing institutions and laws have increasingly protected in the past few decades is the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community. Although Canadians are not explicitly protected from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity in section 15 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, these grounds have been routinely read in since 1995, as well as explicitly added to many provincial human rights codes.

From the decriminalization of homosexuality in 1969 to the decision of the Ontario government to restore coverage of gender reassignment surgery in the Ontario Health Insurance Plan in 2008, both the federal and provincial governments have worked to give Canadians

who identify as LGBT the same legal, civil, and social rights as other minority groups in the country.

But while Canada remains one of the most progressive countries in the world in terms of furthering these rights, we could be doing more.

In the opinions section of this issue of the Fulcrum, the decision to remove the indefi nite blood ban from men who have sex with other men (MSM) in the United Kingdom a couple months ago is discussed. While the replacement of this regulation with one that allows MSM to donate blood so long as they remain sexually inactive for one year may seem progressive, it is important to remember Canada—which has more advanced laws on legal issues pertaining to LGBT issues—continues to ban all blood from MSM donors.

Canada has banned blood donations from MSM since 1977, claiming these men are at a higher risk of contracting HIV/AIDS. While the Canadian Public Health Agency may have statistics to back this up—they estimate that 45.1 per cent positive test results in 2008 came from MSM—the regulations by both Canadian Blood Services and Hé-

ma-Québec discriminate against these men and perpetuate the myth that HIV/ AIDS is a “gay” disease.

In a country where “every minute of every day, someone in Canada needs blood,” it is ridiculous that Canadian Blood Services refuses blood from monogamous men in same-sex relationships—especially when they will accept blood from promiscuous heterosexuals so long as they claim to know the sexual backgrounds of their partners.

Canada also falls short when it comes to protecting minors who identify as LGBT. Many of the laws in Canada protect the legal rights of LGBT people, but they largely apply to those over the age of 18. But teen suicides caused by bullying related to sexual orientation or gender identity continue to plague the media, it is obvious that youth are not being protected.

Jubran v. North Vancouver School District No. 44, a nine-year case fi nally decided in 2005, ruled that school boards in Canada are liable for the discriminatory conduct of its students and for failing to curb homophobic harassment in schools.

One of the most direct ways to com-

bat this kind of discrimination in elementary and secondary schools is through the entrenchment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender issues in school’s curriculums.

Yet it took the Toronto District School Board—one of the largest boards in Ontario—six years to create a resource guide for teachers of students in kindergarten through Grade 12 to simply help teachers integrate these issues into everyday classroom discussion—let alone come up with a comprehensive guide to inform and protect students.

The Ottawa Citizen wrote an editorial last week entitled, “Gay rights are universal,” which urges Canada to “seize the opportunity the Commonwealth gives it to be a positive influence on human rights throughout the world by making gay rights a priority” at the upcoming meeting of the Commonwealth leaders. But before Canada goes abroad preaching the protection of minority rights to our counterparts, it’s clear we have some protecting of our own to do. editor@thefulcrum.ca (613) 562-5261